2026 NFL Draft Preview: Top Prospects and Storylines in Pittsburgh
The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh is set to kick off at 8 p.m. ET on April 23, with sixteen prospects already confirmed to attend. Ohio State leads the pack with five attendees, followed by Alabama and Miami with two each. Among the prospects, Alabama's Ty Simpson is a notable quarterback who could be selected early in the draft, possibly after Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. The attendees include standout playmakers like USC's Makai Lemon, Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, Ohio State's Carnell Tate, and Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson.
Defensive prospects dominate the list of attendees, showcasing the depth of talent on that side of the ball. The draft class boasts impressive pass-rushers and rushers, with players like Arvell Reese (Ohio State), David Bailey (Texas Tech), Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami), and Keldric Faulk (Auburn) expected to make an impact. Ohio State's Sonny Styles, a standout at the NFL Scouting Combine, is the lone off-ball linebacker expected to attend the draft.
The secondary will also be well-represented, with top safety prospect Caleb Downs from Ohio State, along with standout corners like LSU's Mansoor Delane and Tennessee's Colton Hood. Offensive and interior defensive line prospects will be present as well, including Miami's Francis Mauigoa, Ohio State's Kayden McDonald, and Alabama's Kadyn Proctor.
The draft will kick off with Round 1 on April 23, followed by Rounds 2-3 on April 24 at 7 p.m. ET, and Rounds 4-7 on April 25 at 12 p.m. ET. With a strong lineup of prospects set to attend, the 2026 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event for football fans and teams alike.