As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is on the safety position, with ESPN's Peter Schrager predicting a "safety run" that could see three drafted within the first 15 picks. Key players include Caleb Downs, who is expected to be the first safety selected, followed closely by Dillon Thieneman from Oregon and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren from Toledo. Schrager suggests the early selection of Downs could elevate Thieneman and McNeil-Warren into higher draft spots than typically anticipated.

By the Numbers
  • Caleb Downs is projected to be a top 10 pick.
  • Dillon Thieneman and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren could both be taken in the top 15.
Yes, But

Although taking a safety early may not align with the Steelers鈥� immediate needs, drafting these players could create opportunities. If all three safeties go before the Steelers鈥� pick, it may allow talented offensive linemen or wide receivers to drop, potentially benefiting the Steelers.

State of Play
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just over a week away.
  • The Steelers hold the 21st pick and have hosted only McNeil-Warren for a pre-draft visit.
What's Next

As the draft nears, teams will assess their strategies. If the predicted run on safeties occurs, it could shift focus for the Steelers towards other positions, enhancing their options at 21.

Bottom Line

Expect a potential shake-up in the draft order early on, particularly for the safety position. This could have positive ripple effects for the Steelers, potentially allowing them to select a high-value player at a different position if key safeties are taken early.