Jerome Bettis Urges Steelers to Address QB and OL in 2026 NFL Draft Pittsburgh Steelers legend Jerome Bettis has outlined a clear strategy for his former team heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, emphasizing the need to address both the quarterback position and offensive line. Bettis, speaking with multiple media outlets in the days leading up to the draft, acknowledged the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ future with the team. Even as he expressed no objection to the Steelers waiting on Rodgers’ decision for the 2026 season, he stressed the importance of drafting a quarterback regardless. “I don’t have a problem with the Aaron Rodgers project in terms of this year,” Bettis said. “But I do believe [the Steelers should] go and maybe in the latter rounds — in the third, fourth, fifth round — and maybe you get one of those quarterbacks and maybe you are able to then develop them to a degree where next year you either have a quarterback or you’re going to get a quarterback [in the 2027 draft]. So, that way, you’re not in the same quagmire that you’re in every year, not having a franchise quarterback.” On the offensive line, Bettis identified specific targets he believes would significantly improve Pittsburgh’s front five. He highlighted Penn State guard Vega Ioane as his top choice, praising the player’s fit with the Steelers’ needs. “Well, it depends on who is there,” Bettis said. “I think the guard from Penn State (Ioane) would be great. He’s a stud. But I don’t think he’ll make it to 21.” Bettis too noted that Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano could serve as a versatile option, capable of playing either tackle or guard for the Steelers. He acknowledged that while Ioane is widely viewed as a top-15 prospect and likely to be selected before Pittsburgh’s pick at No. 21 the team should still prioritize offensive line help if possible. “I would love to notice if they could move up five or six slots,” Bettis added. “There’s a couple offensive linemen that I think they could really utilize. Unfortunately, they may not be there. So that’s my fear is that they miss out on one of these really decent offensive linemen.” The Steelers enter the 2026 NFL Draft with 12 total selections, including the 21st overall pick in the first round. Bettis’ advice reflects a growing consensus among analysts and former players that Pittsburgh must take proactive steps to secure long-term solutions at quarterback and along the offensive line.
47