Top Defensive Prospect Makes His Desire Clear To Join The Steelers: "I Hope So"

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had one of the most successful offseasons in the NFL in 2026, despite the fact that the organization still does not have a clear answer at quarterback. Pittsburgh has made great signings with good value, and there is still a chance that the franchise will be able to land a compensatory pick or two in 2027. The moves so far have the fan base feeling a bit optimistic about the 2026 season, and the organization has a chance to add to that optimism with great execution in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh currently holds 12 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, with five of those coming in the first three rounds of the event. It is very unlikely that the franchise will draft 12 players, and some of those picks will be traded in an effort to move up the draft board, while others may be dealt in exchange for draft capital in 2027. The Steelers' first two picks are the 21st overall, and the 53rd overall. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette beat writer Brian Batko spoke with some guys from Ohio State's Pro Day, and he shared some comments from defensive tackle Kayden McDonald that made it seem like McDonald really wants to become a Steeler with one of those selections.

"Admittedly, McDonald isn’t sure what the odds are that he reunites with [Jack] Sawyer and gets to learn from Cam Heyward," Batko wrote. "He knows that it all depends on what the teams in the top 20 do, how the Steelers view him, and a multitude of other unpredictable factors. 'I hope so, man,' McDonald said, adding that he plans to be in Pittsburgh for the Draft. 'Yes sir, I’m going. Hopefully, I don’t got to leave.'"

McDonald will be in Pittsburgh for the three-day event in late April, although there is a good chance that he will be off of the board on Night 1. He is currently seen as a late first-round pick, and he could fall to the front of the second round. He played with Jack Sawyer and Will Howard at Ohio State, and he seemed excited about the chance to learn from a guy like Cam Heyward, who is also an Ohio State alum.

There is a lot about the Steelers that a Buckeye might like. The team is full of players that played at Ohio State. Even wide receiver prospect Carnell Tate has mentioned that reuniting with Howard would be special as the two won a National Championship together. 

The Steelers have focused on building up the defensive line, and adding some more depth and youth to that room may be a focus in the 2026 NFL Draft, just not in the first round. Pittsburgh has other pressing needs to potentially address, but trading back for a player like McDonald would be an interesting move. This could potentially give Pittsburgh more draft capital in 2027, which is something the franchise has been actively pursuing.

McDonald had three sacks and 34 total tackles during his final season at Ohio State, and he could be a decent young run-stuffer for the franchise.

Steelers Could Quickly Have A Pressing Need On The Defensive Line

Keeanu Benton is going into the final year of his rookie deal, and it is fair to say that he hasn't quite progressed the way the fan base had hoped he would. He has still been a solid player, and many believe he was played out of position for most of the start of his young career. However, if Pittsburgh does not bring him back or sign him to an extension, the defensive line could be in trouble. Especially if that is paired with Heyward retiring. 

This could make defensive line more of a priority than the fan base realizes. Time will tell.

What do you think about the Steelers drafting McDonald? Let me know on X, @brogannoey!

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