The Terrible Podcast — Steelers' Pro Day Process, WR Positional Draft Value, 2026 WR Class, Empty Routes & More
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The Terrible Podcast dives deep into the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 draft preparations, focusing on their surprising absence from key Pro Days at Alabama and Ohio State—events typically attended by decision-makers Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan. Hosts Dave Bryan and Alex Kazzura express disappointment, noting the lack of visibility from front office leaders and position coaches, which may signal a shift in the team’s pre-draft strategy under the new coaching regime. They debate whether this absence reflects a strategic change or a lack of engagement, emphasizing the value of boots-on-the-ground scouting for evaluating intangibles like leadership and chemistry. The discussion then pivots to wide receiver positional value, with a critical look at the Steelers’ 10-year drought of first-round WR picks and the current class’s lack of clear superstars. Using metrics like yards per route run and drop rates, the hosts argue that the Steelers should prioritize second-round value over a first-round WR, especially with DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. already on board. They highlight Omar Cooper Jr. and Makai Lemon as strong second-round fits, while questioning the long-term return on first-round WR investments in today’s NFL. The episode concludes with listener engagement on draft strategy, positional value, and potential late-round special teams talent.
The Steelers' absence from Alabama and Ohio State Pro Days suggests a strategic shift in scouting, potentially reducing boots-on-the-ground evaluation under new head coach Mike McCarthy.
The Steelers have not drafted a wide receiver in the first round in 10 years—longest streak in the NFL—and may continue this trend due to the current class’s lack of elite talent.
Yards per route run and drop rate are critical metrics for evaluating WR efficiency; the Steelers need at least one receiver in the top 100 in this stat to improve offensive productivity.
Omar Cooper Jr. and Makai Lemon are strong second-round fits, offering high production and low drop rates, making them better value than first-round picks in this class.
The Steelers should focus on guard or tackle in the first round due to roster needs and the higher likelihood of immediate impact, especially with offensive line depth concerns.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Pro Day Absences & Strategic Shifts
“I'm disappointed to not see these guys be very active on the trail. I said last episode, I think it was last episode, that obviously the tape's going to matter the most and, you know, a pro day workout only means so much. But I think there are some exceptions even for quarterbacks to kind of get a feel for how the ball comes out of his hand and just, as I've talked about before, leadership and interacting with teammates and getting to know the person.”
Wide Receiver Draft Value & Historical Trends
“If you're drafting a wide receiver in today's NFL in the first round, he is a guy that you probably want to get on the field right away and get producing. In other words, he would be a guy that you would expect to come in and make significant contributions with your team.”
Evaluating the 2026 WR Class: Talent vs. Value
“If you're looking at yards per route run for 2026, you've got guys like Surratt and obviously Omar Cooper Jr. and Makai Lemon up there, very strong producers in that category.”
Positional Value & Draft Strategy
The hosts debate where the Steelers should prioritize in the draft. They argue that guard and tackle offer better immediate impact than wide receiver, especially with the current roster construction. They also discuss the potential for trading down to accumulate more picks, given the team’s strong draft capital.
Listener Engagement & Final Thoughts
The hosts invite listener input on whether any WR in the 2026 class could be a future superstar and whether the Steelers should target a second-round WR. They preview upcoming topics, including contract details for new signings and potential special teams additions.
“If you're drafting a wide receiver in today's NFL in the first round, he is a guy that you probably want to get on the field right away and get producing. In other words, he would be a guy that you would expect to come in and make significant contributions with your team.”
“I'm disappointed to not see these guys be very active on the trail. I said last episode, I think it was last episode, that obviously the tape's going to matter the most and, you know, a pro day workout only means so much. But I think there are some exceptions even for quarterbacks to kind of get a feel for how the ball comes out of his hand and just, as I've talked about before, leadership and interacting with teammates and getting to know the person.”
“If you're looking at yards per route run for 2026, you've got guys like Surratt and obviously Omar Cooper Jr. and Makai Lemon up there, very strong producers in that category.”
Hosts
Pittsburgh Steelers
organization
Omar Khan
person
Mike McCarthy
person
Omar Cooper Jr.
person
Makai Lemon
person
Michael Pittman Jr.
person
DK Metcalf
person
Carnell Tate
person
Aaron Rodgers
person
Jordan Tyson
person
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