Steelers Now
In a recent way too early 2026 NFL mock draft, Ryan McCrystal of Sharp Football Analysis has the Pittsburgh Steelers making a surprising move with their first-round selection, opting to bolster their backfield with Penn State running back Nick Singleton.
McCrystal offered this rationale for the pick:
“There is no Ashton Jeanty in next year’s draft class, but the 220-pound Singleton might be close with his blend of size and speed. His 41 receptions last year also proved he could be a factor in the passing game.”
The selection would be a head-scratcher for several reasons, particularly given the quarterback landscape in the upcoming class. With prospects like LaNorris Sellers, Fernando Mendoza all available and already being linked to Pittsburgh, the Steelers are widely expected to be in the market for a long-term solution at quarterback. Veteran Aaron Rodgers has publicly stated that this will likely be his final season, leaving the position wide open for the future.
The Steelers did take a flier on Ohio State’s Will Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 draft, but history suggests late-round quarterbacks rarely develop into reliable franchise options.
The running back pick also raises questions considering the team’s current depth at the position. While Najee Harris departed in free agency, the Steelers have an explosive weapon in Jaylen Warren, who is expected to step into a larger role. They also drafted Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson in the third round and signed Kenneth Gainwell to further round out the room.
Using a first-round pick on a running back in today’s NFL is already considered a risky investment given the position’s short shelf life and declining value.
Of course, the draft is still months away and much will change between now and then. Player stock will rise and fall, team needs will evolve and draft positioning is still fluid. But for now, McCrystal’s projection adds an intriguing wrinkle to Pittsburgh’s long-term outlook.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Despite QB Uncertainty, Steelers Projected to Take RB in 2026 Mock Draft
