The Steelers closed out an electric Night Two of their 2026 NFL Draft. After selecting Penn State quarterback Drew Allar and Georgia cornerback Daylen Everette, the Steelers used their fourth and final pick of the evening on Iowa offensive lineman Gennings Dunker. Here is what our staff had to say about it.

Ryan Parish: As a personality, I like Dunker as much as the next guy.  He’s a throwback guard if ever there was one, and who doesn’t love a red mulleted monster who does espresso shots to get jacked before games? As a prospect I have concerns about his stiffness, and he absolutely can not be left alone in space, so it makes sense he was announced as a guard. I tend to have bias against this player archetype, but it works in the right system. This is a declaration from Mike McCarthy that we’re going to lean much more into power/gap concepts in the running game, and journey farther away from zone concepts.  There were other guards I preferred on the board, but if the Steelers lean in and follow through with the running scheme change, there’s a world where he’s a fan favorite and forms a nasty duo with Zach Frazier. Grade: B

Alex Hanczar: Alas the Steeler grab a guard. With Isaac Seumalo’s departure, it was critical Pittsburgh grab more protection for whoever is throwing the pigskin next season. Dunker is a member of the 2025 Joe Moore award winning line as the best offensive line in College Football, a presence that will certainly carry over to the NFL. Along with the accolades, Dunker is big, long, and incredibly strong. With question marks piling on the line, Dunker is a massive pick up. Grade: B+

Ryland Bickley: I don’t like Dunker as a tackle, but the Steelers announced him at guard, where his game should level up in the NFL. I still have some real questions about Dunker’s lateral movement and general ability in space, but his RAS switches to a 9.57 when listed on the interior, which is promising. Dunker is a mauling run blocker with a solid anchor and great strength. And I love how invested Pittsburgh is in shoring up the offensive line during these transitionary seasons. Grade: B+

Joey Bray: Dunker figures to slide inside and play guard at the NFL level. He is particularly good in the run game where he blocks with a sort of mauler like mentality. He fits very well inside with Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. The Steelers can feel confident that they have options at all positions on the offensive line with position versatility. I wouldn’t necessarily count on Dunker being a day one starter given his lack or experience at guard. It’s hard not to love a good mullet too. Grade: B-

Jarrett Bailey: Gennings Dunker should double as the Steelers’ left guard as well as their new mascot. Look at that man and try to find someone else more born to be a Steeler. He’ll slide inside to guard, but his history at tackle gives him some versatility just in case the Steelers need to kick him back outside. Love the player, love the pick. Grade: A-

Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

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