The Pittsburgh Steelers are quickly approaching their first preseason game of 2026. They have spent the past few weeks working in Latrobe while acclimating to a brand-new coaching staff. They are also adjusting to a new approach while evaluating a fresh rookie class, and several of those rookies have impressed in surprising fashion.
The Steelers have a number of rookies who could see the field later in the season, while others might have to wait until next year for a larger opportunity. For now, here are four rookies turning heads at Steelers training camp.
Max Iheanachor
Iheanachor has been especially impressive since the pads came on. He has held his own against the Steelers' top four edge rushers. Though he is a first-round pick, he is still a rookie competing against All-Pro-caliber talent.
Not only that, Iheanachor has limited football experience. He still has plenty of work to do as he continues to develop, but his early returns have been particularly promising.
Daylen Everette
Everette had a "Welcome to the NFL" moment in camp against DK Metcalf. However, he has continued to progress at a strong rate. He has even been touted as one of general manager Omar Khan's best draft picks.
Everette is in a similar situation to fellow third-round pick Drew Allar in that he likely won't receive many starting snaps. However, Everette could continue to showcase his talent on special teams.
Kaden Wetjen
reuters.com,2026:newsml_MT1USATODAY29076112:1027848926
Wetjen has shown flashes of promise at receiver. He is also listed as the primary backup in the slot on the Steelers' unofficial depth chart. During his college career at Iowa, he was more of a gadget player within the offense.
Now, he will not only get the opportunity to continue serving as a top returner, but he could also develop into a legitimate receiver. He has already showcased a few connections with Will Howard and Allar during camp.
Drew Allar
Not that anyone expected Allar to simply lay an egg or anything, but he has provided some excitement during camp. Allar was once considered a first-round-caliber prospect before tumbling into the third round.
Allar has shown signs of growth and has even closed the gap on Howard a little bit. Will it push Allar into the QB2 conversation? No chance. It does, however, give the coaching staff and fans some optimism heading into next year.
