​Regardless of what unfolds in 2026, our expectation is that the Pittsburgh Steelers will prioritize getting younger and more athletic on the defensive side of the ball in the 2027 NFL Draft. With three weeks remaining until NFL training camps open, we revisited our four-round mock draft and reset it to account for the aging salaries and departures of several defensive players, making it clear that this draft class needs to introduce fresh talent to replace those veterans.
Among the standout performers from that talented 2025 wide receiver group, Indiana’s Charlie Becker stood out as our favorite, and we’re eager to see him assume the clear No. 1 role this year. Becker brings a compelling combination of size and athleticism, capable of lining up in multiple spots on the field. He can run every route and possesses the strongest hands in the draft, making him a genuine vertical threat for the Steelers’ passing game.
We remain hopeful about DeShon Elliott’s return this season but see an opportunity for the franchise to upgrade at safety by adding Xavier Scott. Scott is a pure, coverage-first safety who plays with the instincts of a cornerback, able to lockdown receivers and tight ends alike. His ability in man coverage would be a valuable asset for a defense that seeks more versatility in the secondary.
Also worth noting is Will Heldt, who comes in at an athletic 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds, powered by a relentless motor and substantial upper-body strength. Heldt could see a path to a hybrid 3-4 defensive end role, or, if he trims a bit, he could function as an oversized edge rusher with the power to disrupt the run game. His versatility adds another layer to the Steelers’ defensive toolkit.
There’s ongoing speculation about whether Joey Porter Jr. will return to Pittsburgh next season. If he isn’t part of the long-term plan, the depth chart would shift upward across the board, creating opportunities for players like Daylen Everett to step into larger roles. McKinney stands out as a smart, athletic coverage defender with the potential to be a definite starter, should he be given the chance.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers youth movement on defense in new mock draft update for better SEO.