Pittsburgh Steelers target Dillon Thieneman and other top Safeties ahead of the 2026 NFL draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers have turned their draft focus toward the secondary. League sources alluded that the team met multiple safety prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. This signals a clear intent.

While the quarterback and wide receiver drew outside buzz, the safety board looked active inside the building. The Steelers hold the No. 21 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their recent meetings reveal where their priorities stand. And one name seems to be an ideal fit: Dillon Thieneman.

Pittsburgh Steelers zero in on safety help with Dillon Thieneman emerging as a realistic draft fit

The most high-profile name linked to Pittsburgh is Caleb Downs. PennLive’s Nick Farabaugh reported on February 26 that the Steelers met Downs at the Combine. Downs is widely viewed as a top-tier prospect and a likely early first-round pick. Unless he slides unexpectedly, Pittsburgh may need to trade up to land him.

That truly makes Dillon Thieneman a far more practical Pittsburgh Steelers draft target in 2026. Thieneman confirmed during his media availability at the NFL Combine that he held a formal meeting with the Steelers. Evaluators project him as a late Day 1 or early Day 2 selection. His range, tackling reliability, and ball skills fit what the team demands from its safeties.
The Steelers' prospects list does not stop there. Bud Clark also confirmed a formal Combine meeting with the team. Zakee Wheatley said he spoke with Pittsburgh, though he did not specify whether it was formal. Wheatley’s speed and flexibility across defensive packages make him a Day 2 option.

Another intriguing name to watch is AJ Haulcy, known for his physical run defence and zone instincts. If the Steelers pass on safety at No. 21, Haulcy could sit in range on Day 2.

Pittsburgh’s Steelers urgency makes sense. DeShon Elliott suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 8 of the 2025 season. Several depth safeties approach free agency. The team needs both competition and long-term stability.

As of now, Dillion Thieneman looks like the sweet spot. He may be available when the Pittsburgh Steelers go on the clock. He brings versatility without the need to gamble on a trade-up. Also, other players like AJ Haulcy and Bud Clark appear to be the right fit. If the Steelers want impact and value, their safety answer is likely to come from this group in April.








Get the latest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 updates, including the full schedule, teams, live scores, points table, and key series stats such as top run-scorers and wicket-takers.