The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a unique position now that Mike McCarthy is taking over as head coach. General Manager Omar Khan and McCarthy are armed with 12 selections in the upcoming draft, giving them significant flexibility to address roster needs and add depth across multiple positions. Many close to the Steelers organization don't expect all of those 12 picks to be used in full.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan coordinating key decisions on NFL Draft night to shape the future of the franchise.
This abundance of draft capital creates an opportunity to be aggressive, patient, or both depending on how the board unfolds. At this time of year, news around the league can quickly shift draft narratives, and on Wednesday, new information surfaced that could directly impact how the Steelers approach one of their most important areas of need: the offensive line.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa is scheduled to undergo additional imaging at the combine due to a minor back issue that caused discomfort late in the season. The development stems from precautionary testing rather than a confirmed long-term concern.
"Miami OT Francis Mauigoa, potentially the top tackle in the Draft, has decided to be at Combine Rechecks on Friday for additional imaging on a minor back issue that caused him some discomfort late in the season, sources say," Rapoport shared.
For the Steelers, this type of late-stage medical scrutiny can be significant. Offensive tackle remains a position of interest, and a potential slide in the draft board could present an unexpected value opportunity. If Mauigoa or other top tackle prospects experience hesitation from teams due to medical concerns, they could fall out of the first round and into day two territory. That is precisely where Pittsburgh holds considerable draft capital, giving them the chance to act if the right player becomes available.
Jerome Miron / IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Miami standout OT Francis Mauigoa runs off the field.
With 12 picks at their disposal, the Steelers are well positioned to capitalize if talent meets opportunity. A prospect who was once projected as a top tackle could become accessible at a more favorable draft slot, allowing Pittsburgh to address a critical need while maximizing value. As the draft approaches, developments like Mauigoa's medical rechecks could ultimately shape how the Steelers navigate the trenches and whether they are able to secure a potential cornerstone offensive lineman at a discount.
The Steelers’ offensive line took a small hit when they lost Isaac Seumalo in the 2026 offseason. That is one reason why tackle remains a position of need, along with the medical uncertainty surrounding Broderick Jones. Still, the Steelers have worked hard to improve their trenches, and over the course of a few short seasons, they have made significant progress.
Steelers' Offensive Line Remains Buzzing With Potential
Their offensive line stands out as one of the most exciting parts of this team’s future. The group is young, talented, and growing together, and that kind of chemistry cannot be bought. It should lay the foundation for sustained success moving forward. New Steelers offensive line coach James Campen was gifted a great group of players.
Jim Matthews / USA Today Network
Steelers coaches Mike McCarthy and James Campen talk during their time working in Green Bay.
With the news that Mauigoa is set to be rechecked, what ultimately transpires there could influence the Steelers’ draft strategy. Depending on how teams interpret that medical information, Pittsburgh may have the flexibility to move around their draft board and potentially target value elsewhere.
If concerns surrounding Mauigoa cause other teams to hesitate, additional top offensive tackle prospects could begin to slide as well. That kind of domino effect could create a real opportunity for the Steelers to capitalize when they are on the clock. Of course, it is important to remember that this time of the offseason always requires being mindful of smokescreens, as teams, agents, and others work to control narratives, since the NFL is a business.
Please feel free to share your Steelers takes and thoughts with me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and consider following for more Steelers-related content and discussion. I read and respond.
#SteelerNation