Pittsburgh Standard Time: What Steelers fans don't want to see in the 2026 NFL draft

Steel Curtain Network: A Pittsburgh Steelers podcast53mApril 9, 2026

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Pittsburgh Standard Time: What Steelers fans don't want to see in the 2026 NFL draft” inside PodZeus.

AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Pittsburgh Standard Time, hosts Dave Schofield and Greg Benevent dive into what Steelers fans should not want to see in the 2026 NFL Draft, just two weeks before the event. They emphasize a strong preference against the Steelers making 12 or more picks, arguing it wastes valuable draft capital and undermines future flexibility. The duo expresses clear skepticism about drafting a quarterback in the first or second round, especially given the lack of a franchise-caliber prospect and the risk of overcorrecting after Kenny Pickett’s selection. They also voice concerns about taking an edge rusher or safety in the first round, advocating instead for a 'best player available' approach that prioritizes long-term value over short-term need. A key theme is avoiding 'settlement' picks—players taken not because they’re the best fit, but because they’re the only option. The hosts stress the importance of strategic draft management, including trading back to accumulate future picks, and highlight the need for depth at wide receiver and interior offensive line. They conclude with a call to trust the Steelers’ scouting process and let the board guide decisions, rather than external expectations.

Key Takeaways
1

Avoid drafting 12 or more players in the 2026 NFL Draft to preserve future draft capital.

2

Do not take a quarterback in the first or second round unless he’s a clear franchise talent.

3

Prioritize the 'best player available' over positional need, especially in the first round.

4

Avoid settling for players who are only viable at one position—favor flexible players like guard-ready tackles.

5

Use the draft to address multiple needs, not just one, and avoid overvaluing positions like safety or edge rusher in early rounds.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Sponsor: Meinl Schmidt Distillery

A promotional segment for Meinl Schmidt Distillery, emphasizing whiskey as a catalyst for memorable, unplanned moments shared with others.

1:40
3 min

Countdown to the Draft: Two Weeks Away

Hosts reflect on the rapid approach of the 2026 NFL Draft, expressing excitement and anticipation while acknowledging the emotional weight of the event. They discuss the upcoming draft party in Hagerstown, Maryland, and tease potential giveaways.

5:00
5 min

The Problem with 12+ Draft Picks

At 12 picks, that's a waste. It's a waste of resources, resources that could be put towards next year's draft.

Highlight
10:00
7 min

Why Not a Quarterback in the First Round?

If he's not better than the guy that you said, no, we're not taking him in the first round last year, oh my goodness, why would you take him with your first pick this year?

Highlight
16:40
7 min

Avoiding 'Settling' Picks: Safety, Edge Rusher, Tackle

If they take a tackle that they are nothing but a tackle, I'm going to be upset... I'm going to say they've been fleecing us with Roger Jones.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
If he's not better than the guy that you said, no, we're not taking him in the first round last year, oh my goodness, why would you take him with your first pick this year?
Dave Schofield19:27
Viral: 90.0
At 12 picks, that's a waste. It's a waste of resources, resources that could be put towards next year's draft.
Greg Benevent8:13
Viral: 85.0
The only thing that would make me feel better about this... is for them to come out and say, hey, last year we might have taken this guy in the fourth or fifth round. But this year's draft as a whole was just so terrible compared to last year.
Dave Schofield20:50
Viral: 82.0
Speakers

Hosts

Dave SchofieldGreg Benevent
Topics Discussed
2026 nfl draft strategy95%draft capital management90%avoiding settlement picks89%quarterback selection in first round88%wide receiver needs87%trust in scouting department86%position flexibility in drafting85%trade strategy and draft back83%
People & Brands

Pittsburgh Steelers

other

52xPositive

Dave Schofield

person

28xNeutral

Greg Benevent

person

26xNeutral

Kenny Pickett

person

14xPositive

Steel Curtain Network

organization

10xPositive

Broderick Jones

person

7xNeutral

Ty Simpson

person

6xNeutral

Hagerstown

place

6xPositive

Jackson Dart

person

5xNeutral

Caleb Downs

person

5xPositive

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Pittsburgh Standard Time: What Steelers fans don't want to see in the 2026 NFL draft” inside PodZeus.

Start discovering podcast insights today

Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.

No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime