Miller notes that the Steelers have one emerging starting corner in Joey Porter Jr. and need to upgrade opposite him beyond free agents James Pierre and Asante Samuel Jr. Terrell is highlighted as an option because of his cover skills, with Miller describing him as a “savvy cover man with fantastic short-area quickness” and an “ultra-athletic, fluid mover” who could start immediately in a defense that can pressure the quarterback and create flip-the-field opportunities for defensive backs.
Terrell is positioned among the top cornerback prospects in the 2026 class, ranking third at the position on Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board. Miller’s scouting assessment aligns with that high regard, noting Terrell’s press-man prowess and ability to translate his traits into a steady starting role in a competent scheme.
In the No. 53 overall pick, Miller projects Pittsburgh to address the wide receiver room by selecting Georgia star Zachariah Branch. Branch is widely viewed as a high-upside playmaker, thanks to standout speed, agility, and after-the-catch ability. Kiper Jr. lists Branch as the 23rd overall prospect and the No. 4 wide receiver in the 2026 class; Branch posted 81 receptions for 811 yards and six touchdowns in 14 games in 2025.
Branch’s ability to generate big plays in space could help unlock the Steelers’ passing game, which has been a point of emphasis since the 2025 season. Miller highlights Branch’s speed and quickness in space, noting his 7.9 yards after catch per reception as a key selling point for his draft value.
The proposed strategy—using the first round to lock down a topCB and addressing WR in round two—could make sense if the Steelers view more value in the draft than in free agency at those positions. The team has Will Howard, a sixth-round pick in 2025, on the quarterback depth chart, with the possibility of adding a veteran quarterback if they don’t feel Howard is ready to start soon.
Overall, Miller’s scenario reflects a potentially balanced approach: shore up the defense with Terrell at No. 21 and pursue offensive upside with Branch at No. 53, while keeping in mind quarterback depth and the evolving needs of a team aiming to improve a WR corps that underperformed in 2025. This summary draws from Miller’s Two-Round Mock Draft as published by Heavy Sports.
