Steelers Linked To “Perfect Fit” Guard As Left Side Concerns Grow

The Pittsburgh Steelers are speculated to select several positions in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. From offensive line, to safety, and even quarterback, there is plenty of chatter about what direction the Black and Gold are going to go. As of late, the Steelers are most linked to taking a guard in round one, and it is a position that the team has done little to address in the offseason thus far. It's still very much up in the air where Pittsburgh is going with left guard, but drafting a young lineman would make total sense. 

As of now, the Steelers are all set to go with Mason McCormick at the right guard position. The 2024 draft pick has solidified himself as the long-term starter there. However, left guard is a glaring hole for the Steelers' offense. Currently, Pittsburgh has Spencer Anderson and newly signed Brock Hoffman as pieces that could plug and play at the position. There's not much confidence that either will fill the role. The two don't seem like much more than depth pieces, especially Hoffman. Anderson has filled in as a spot starter, but is most effective as an extra lineman and as a versatile piece.

This leaves Pittsburgh with a clear need for a guard in the draft, and at pick 21, there are quite a few attractive options. The Steelers have been mocked to select Ola Ioane from Penn State, but there is concern that he will be off the board by Pittsburgh's pick. Another name has just been mentioned to Pittsburgh that seems realistic at the spot. CBS Sports' Pete Prisco has the Steelers going with an Oregon guard in the 2026 NFL Draft, Emmanuel Pregnon.

"He is the perfect Steelers player. He is nasty in the run game and good in pass protection. He's just scratching what he can become as a left guard, which is a position of need for the Steelers," Prisco wrote. 

Pregnon is an intriguing prospect for Pittsburgh and is considered a top offensive lineman in the draft this year. The former Duck measures in at 6'4", 314 lbs, and is extremely experienced. He is coming off a spectacular senior season and is considered one of the more NFL-ready linemen in this draft. 

Pregnon played at USC and Wyoming and has an extremely high ceiling, while his floor is that of an NFL guard already. His experience plays a major role in why he is so sought after. He is known for his long arms and giant hands, and is extremely lean for his stature. He's a solid protector and plays well in the run game. His long reach is what makes him so good. The Steelers wouldn't mind his skill set when having to face the physicality that is AFC North football. 

Pregnon, seemingly being the most NFL-ready guard, is very important for the Steelers as they are looking for someone who can start. Based on their lack of moves this offseason surrounding left guard, it seems rather clear that Pittsburgh sees capable starting guards in the draft. Pick 21 very well could be where the Steelers find one, and Pregnon would be the most ready for the challenge. 

Steelers Need To Get This Potential Guard Pick Right

The Steelers' front office has invested a ton of draft capital into the offensive line over the course of the last few seasons. They have used two first-round picks and a second-rounder on three starters on the offensive line. These guys are, in the near future, going to be looking for their second contracts. Pittsburgh wants to ensure they get this pick right if they go for a guard. They cannot afford to continue to keep using high-end draft capital on their offensive line. 

The 2026 NFL Draft will be a true test of how the Steelers will address their issues at left guard. Could they draft one in the first round? Do they simply rely on an existing veteran? The chance to draft one seems like the most effective, especially if Pregnon remains at 21. 

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