Steelers wrap up Draft Day 2 with Allar, Everette, Dunker

by Christina "Tina" Rivers (3Rivers_Writer) on April 25, 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers continued to emphasize roster balance and long-term development on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting quarterback Drew Allar, cornerback Daylen Everette and offensive lineman Gennings Dunker in the third round.

DOUBLE YOI!!

The Steelers select Penn State QB Drew Allar with their first of three third round picks

What do yinz think of this one?! pic.twitter.com/Y07gs17MSc

— 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 (@steelcityundrgr) April 25, 2026

Quarterback depth with Allar

Pittsburgh used the No. 76 overall pick to select Allar, a former Penn State standout who brings size, arm strength and starting experience at the collegiate level. According to ESPN, the Steelers targeted Allar as part of a broader effort to stabilize and develop the quarterback position moving forward.

At 6-foot-5 with a strong pocket presence, Allar profiles as a developmental passer who could compete for playing time behind Aaron Rodgers – should the veteran return in 2026 – Will Howard and Mason Rudolph while adjusting to the NFL.

NFL analysts and team evaluations noted his ability to make downfield throws and operate within a structured offense, though consistency and decision-making remain areas for growth.

Tom Arth speaks to the media. https://t.co/fDdsrJ2I0l

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 25, 2026

With their second selection in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Steelers solidify their secondary depth with Georgia CB Daylen Everette! pic.twitter.com/qTsu2xam54

— 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 (@steelcityundrgr) April 25, 2026

Everette strengthens the secondary

With the No. 85 overall pick, the Steelers turned to defense, selecting Everette out of Georgia. The athletic cornerback played in a high-level defensive system in college and brings physical traits that align with Pittsburgh’s defensive philosophy.

Coverage analysis from NFL and reporting from ESPN highlight Everette’s length and speed, traits that allow him to match up with larger receivers and contribute in multiple coverage schemes.

While he may not immediately step into a starting role, Everette is expected to compete for snaps in sub-packages and on special teams. The addition also provides depth behind established contributors in the secondary, an area that has been a priority for Pittsburgh in recent drafts.

DC Patrick Graham speaks to the media. https://t.co/dVk7sd8kRT

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 25, 2026

Iowa Guard Gennings Dunker is the newest Pittsburgh Steeler! pic.twitter.com/yrvZJvJ4Wn

— 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 (@steelcityundrgr) April 25, 2026

Dunker adds physicality up front

The Steelers rounded out their third-round selections by taking Dunker at No. 96 overall after trading up, according to Pittsburgh Steelers. The trade deal involved the Seattle Seahawks passing over pick 96 (overall) in exchange for pick 99 and pick 216 (sixth round) in this year’s draft.

The Iowa product brings a reputation for toughness and physical line play, attributes long valued by the organization. Dunker’s experience in a run-heavy system and his ability to play with leverage and power is valued. Though he played tackle in college, Dunker is expected to transition to guard at the pro level.

That positional flexibility could allow Dunker to compete for early playing time along the interior offensive line, an area where the Steelers have sought increased depth and consistency.

Offensive Line Coach James Campen speaks to the media. https://t.co/eoqmJCaoia

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 25, 2026

Focused approach to roster building

Through their third-round selections, the Steelers addressed three distinct areas: quarterback development, secondary depth and offensive line reinforcement. The approach reflects a balanced draft strategy, combining long-term upside with immediate competition.

By adding Allar, Everette and Dunker, Pittsburgh continues to build a roster designed to compete in the short term while preparing for future transitions at key positions.

As noted across evaluations from NFL and ESPN, each selection aligns with both positional need and organizational philosophy.

With additional picks still ahead, the Steelers’ Day 2 decisions offer a clear indication of their priorities: strengthening the foundation of the roster while investing in players who can develop into significant contributors in the seasons to come.