The 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh set a new attendance record, drawing over 320,000 fans to Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026. The event was a spectacle, with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell even slipping in a local colloquialism—“yinz”—while Primanti Brothers sandwiches and pierogi were name-dropped repeatedly. The draft also featured 32 first-round selections, with some teams making smart moves and others falling short.
Top 4 Best Team Hauls of Day 1
1. Tennessee Titans: Carnell Tate & Keldric Faulk
The Titans made a pair of impactful selections. Carnell Tate, WR from Ohio State, went No. 4 overall, providing an immediate upgrade for a passing attack that ranked among the league’s weakest in 2025. Tennessee’s quarterback, Cam Ward, struggled to find reliable targets, with Chig Okonkwo leading the team in receiving yards (560). The addition of Tate, alongside recently signed Wan’Dale Robinson, gives Ward a much-needed weapon. The Titans also traded back into the first round to select Keldric Faulk, EDGE from Auburn, bolstering a defensive line in need of pass rush.
2. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane
The Ravens addressed their offensive line by selecting Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane, OG from Penn State, at No. 14. Ioane’s versatility and collegiate experience make him a valuable addition to Baltimore’s front five, providing depth and competition.
3. New Orleans Saints: Jordyn Tyson
The Saints secured Jordyn Tyson, WR from Arizona State, with the No. 8 overall pick. Tyson’s size, speed, and route-running ability make him an ideal target for Derek Carr, adding a dynamic playmaker to New Orleans’ offense.
4. Los Angeles Rams: Malik Nabers
The Rams traded up to select Malik Nabers, WR from LSU, at No. 20. Nabers’ explosive playmaking and big-play ability fit perfectly into Los Angeles’ offensive scheme, giving Matthew Stafford another elite target.
Top 3 Worst Team Hauls of Day 1
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: Max Iheanachor
The Steelers, who entered the draft with a league-high 12 picks, made a puzzling selection at No. 21. Instead of targeting a receiver or addressing their offensive line needs, Pittsburgh chose Max Iheanachor, OT from Arizona State. The pick came after the Eagles jumped them to draft Makai Lemon, leaving the Steelers scrambling. Iheanachor, a raw prospect, was not the move fans expected, reinforcing Pittsburgh’s reputation as an “elite mediocre” franchise.
2. Chicago Bears: Javon Bullard
The Bears selected Javon Bullard, S from Georgia, at No. 9. While Bullard is a talented defensive back, the pick was criticized as a reach, with many expecting Chicago to prioritize offensive line or edge rusher needs. The selection left fans questioning the team’s draft strategy.
3. Green Bay Packers: Xavier Worthy
The Packers took Xavier Worthy, WR from Texas, at No. 28. While Worthy is a speedster with big-play potential, the selection was seen as a luxury pick in a draft where Green Bay needed to address its offensive line and defensive front. The move raised eyebrows among analysts and fans alike.