The Philadelphia Eagles managed to stun the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2026 NFL Draft after stealing USC Trojans star Makai Lemon in Round 1.
However, the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded on draft night will only make Steelers fans more furious about the situation. Pittsburgh is certainly proving to be a worthy choice as the host city for the NFL Draft after drawing over 300,000 fans for the opening round.
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Although, Steelers supporters were certainly underwhelmed with the team’s Round 1 selection after Lemon went one pick before to the Eagles. Philadelphia GM Howie Roseman pulled off another epic trade to make the deal happen, but the details are wild.
Here is the moment Makai Lemon thought he was getting drafted by #Steelers and realizing in real time that the #Eagles traded up, via @gmfb this morning.He asked Omar Khan "Why is Philly calling [me]?" pic.twitter.com/AbXDJONYye
Good Morning Football broke down Lemon’s draft night process after speaking with the Steelers over the phone moments before the Eagles selected the USC standout.
Lemon’s family was spotted celebrating when Steelers GM Omar Khan jumped on a call with the former college football star. However, the conversation was short-lived after Philly swapped picks with the Dallas Cowboys.
“Hey, why is Philly calling me?” Lemon questioned while still speaking to Khan.
MORE: Eagles GM Howie Roseman tortures Steelers fans after pulling 2026 NFL Draft heist
The sequence became even more chaotic when Lemon’s agent chimed in on the situation. His agent revealed that the Eagles traded up to draft the receiver, which led to a wild moment.
Now, the Eagles add Lemon to a talented group of receivers that currently includes A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith. However, it’s very likely that Brown ends up being traded before the start of next season as the New England Patriots and other teams lurk.
Roseman and the Eagles are always dangerous during the NFL Draft considering the team’s significant success in identifying players. However, the shocking move for Lemon doesn’t bode well for the Steelers, who desperately need help at receiver.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is also uncertain about its quarterback position as Aaron Rodgers mulls retirement again. The Steelers currently featured Will Howard and Mason Rudolph as their two QB options for 2026.