Steelers eye safety as trade-up target in 2026 NFL Draft

Reporting says the Pittsburgh Steelers are open to trading up in the 2026 NFL Draft and that a safety — with names like Caleb Downs and Dillon Thieneman cited — is a possible focus.

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2026 NFL Draft holding 12 selections and a stated approach of taking the best player available at positions of need. The club is open to trading up to secure a particular player or position. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac said the team is unlikely to move up for an offensive guard or wide receiver but suggested safety as a real possibility. That comment has prompted discussion about how a trade up for a safety would affect Pittsburgh's defensive roster. Reported details: - The Steelers have 12 draft picks and are open to making trades to acquire players they value. - Gerry Dulac reported that the team would not trade up for a guard or a wide receiver, and mentioned safety as a possible target. - Caleb Downs of Ohio State and Dillon Thieneman of Oregon were named as safety prospects who could be available near the top of the first round. - The article notes that the last time the Steelers traded up for a safety they selected Troy Polamalu. - Pittsburgh signed Jaquan Brisker to a one-year deal that makes him the starter in 2026, and DeShon Elliott is under a two-year deal for 2026–2027. - Drafting a safety and moving him into a starting role could affect Brisker's future with the team after the 2026 season. Summary: A trade up for a safety would alter the team's defensive outlook by creating competition for starting roles and influencing roster decisions beyond 2026. DeShon Elliott's existing contract would remain in place, while Jaquan Brisker's situation could change if a drafted safety steps into a starting role. Undetermined at this time.