Pittsburgh Steelers Select Jordyn Tyson in 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Analysis & Reaction

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a bold selection in the 2026 SB Nation Community Mock Draft, taking wide receiver Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State with the 21st overall pick.

This annual mock draft, organized by SB Nation, brings together all 32 NFL team sites to simulate the first round of the draft. The actual 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23–25.

Each team’s site manager selects a player and provides reasoning, followed by additional analysis from the organizing editor. The process aims to reflect fan and analyst perspectives leading up to the real event.

Why the Steelers Chose Jordyn Tyson

Behind The Steel Curtain’s Jarrett Bailey made the selection for the Steelers, drafting Tyson as a wide receiver from Arizona State.

“My analysis: I am all for Bailey’s thought process here, but I can’t help but believe Tyson’s skillset is a bit redundant with both D.K. Metcalf and Michael Pittman already on the team. You’d be giving your quarterback three massive targets, all of whom stand from 6’2 to 6’4, but that sounds awfully one-note for the offense.”

Tyson joins a deep receiving corps that already includes Metcalf and Pittman, both of whom are over 6’2”. The team also has third-year receiver Roman Wilson, who would likely slot in as WR3/4 if Tyson were added.

“This is one of those instances where I’m not necessarily in love with the team-player pairing, but Bailey has a plan here and as the hypothetical GM for his squad, he’s going out on his own convictions and grabbing his guy.”

Tyson’s Background and Impact

Tyson made a strong impression in college football, notably during a game on October 11, 2025, at Rice Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah. Playing for the Arizona State Sun Devils, Tyson stiff-armed Utah Utes cornerback Smith Snowden en route to a touchdown.

His performance in that game highlighted his physicality and playmaking ability, traits that could translate well at the NFL level. However, his selection in this mock draft has sparked debate about positional fit within Pittsburgh’s existing roster.

Mock Draft Context and Next Steps

The SB Nation Community Mock Draft serves as a fan-driven simulation, offering insights into potential draft strategies and player evaluations ahead of the official event. Each pick reflects the priorities and preferences of team-specific analysts and their communities.

While Tyson’s selection raises questions about offensive balance, it also underscores the Steelers’ commitment to building a competitive receiving corps. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the team’s final decisions will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.