A recent mock draft from College Football HQ predicts that the Pittsburgh Steelers will select Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood with the 20th overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. While Hood is recognized as a talented athlete, his selection may not align with the Steelers’ current roster needs.
Hood has emerged as a prominent name in college football, standing at 6 feet and weighing 195 pounds. He is noted for his athleticism and confidence at the line of scrimmage. His ability to excel in both man and zone coverage, along with his knack for making plays on the ball, including interceptions, highlights his potential. Despite this, scouts have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in his tackling technique and tendency to draw penalties due to overly aggressive coverage.
The issue for Pittsburgh is not Hood’s skill set but rather the team’s existing depth at cornerback. With Joey Porter Jr. emerging as a key player, along with James Pierre and Brandin Echols showing promise, the Steelers appear to have a solid foundation at the position. Additionally, the recent addition of Asante Samuel Jr., who is on the mend following spinal surgery, further alleviates immediate concerns in the secondary.
In contrast, the Steelers’ recent loss to the Cleveland Browns has highlighted a more pressing need: their wide receiver corps. Outside of DK Metcalf, there is a noticeable lack of depth and playmaking ability at the position. With the 20th pick, it would be more strategic for Pittsburgh to pursue a dynamic wide receiver who can stretch the field and enhance the offensive threat.
Beyond the receiver position, the Steelers have additional priorities to address before considering a cornerback. Strengthening the defensive line remains crucial, and the team is also in search of a high-caliber safety who can significantly impact games from the back end.
While Colton Hood may develop into a valuable NFL player, the Steelers’ current challenges do not position cornerback as a top priority. Thus, the rationale for this mock draft selection raises questions about its feasibility given the team’s immediate needs.
