The 2026 NFL Draft is just a week away, and the mock draft season is reaching its peak. ESPN's veteran analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has released his final two-round projection, offering a fascinating glimpse into what the Pittsburgh Steelers' strategy might be. Let's dive into the potential future Steelers he has penciled in.

With the 20th overall pick, Kiper projects the Steelers to fortify their offensive line by selecting Penn State guard Vega Ioane. This pick comes after a predicted run on wide receivers, making a top-tier interior lineman a perfect value. Ioane, who visited Pittsburgh on a Top-30 visit, is viewed as a decade-long starter with All-Pro potential, offering immediate stability for the offense.

In the second round, Kiper sends Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch to Pittsburgh, citing his elite speed and quickness as a perfect complement to the current roster. However, this pick raises questions about value and fit. With players like Calvin Austin III already providing similar speed and Roman Wilson in the mix, selecting Branch here feels like a luxury. While Kiper compares him to playmaker Zay Flowers, the Steelers may look to address other pressing needs with this valuable second-round selection.