Why Steelers Shouldn't Trade Out of 2026 NFL Draft Picks for 2027 Picks to Find Next Franchise QB

The Locked On Steelers podcast examines whether the Pittsburgh Steelers should trade their 2026 draft picks for 2027 picks in an effort to secure a franchise quarterback. Host Chris Carter and guest Alan Saunders from SteelersNow.com argue that while the team has built up future draft capital through strategic trades—like the George Pickens deal—the idea of trading down to accumulate more picks in 2027 is impractical. They highlight that the 2026 quarterback class is weak, and few teams are likely to trade up from 2027, making it difficult to find sellers. Instead, the focus should be on maximizing the current draft class by using the 12 available picks to build depth and trade up for immediate contributors. The discussion also covers the tight end position, where Saunders downplays the need for a high pick, and compares the Steelers’ current situation to the 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, noting that while there are superficial parallels, the Steelers’ defense is not at the same elite level. The episode concludes with a strong emphasis on building through the 2026 draft rather than relying on future hope.