Early consensus among national evaluators lauded Omar Khan’s selection of Iheanachor as a solid, upside-filled addition at tackle, even if the overall grade reflected tempered expectations rather than a home-run pick.
Locally, Steelers Now’s Alan Saunders issued pointed critique, saying the team failed three times in the 2026 first round and ultimately landed on a position the club didn’t seem to prefer. Saunders argued the sequence—initial quarterback interest, a pivot to receiver, then Lemon’s snap by another team—left Pittsburgh without a clear plan for how Iheanachor would fit.
The drama intensified when the Philadelphia Eagles swooped in to take Lemon at No. 20, trading up with the Dallas Cowboys and leaving the Steelers to pivot to Plan C—Iheanachor at No. 21. Pittsburgh still led the 2026 NFL Draft with 12 selections, but fans debated whether the team could have done more to secure Lemon or another top receiver.
Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin framed Iheanachor’s addition as valuable for offensive-line flexibility, with the rookie initially slated to play tackle. Depending on Broderick Jones’s neck injury recovery, Iheanachor could man either left or right tackle, while veteran Troy Fautanu might shift roles as needed, including possible moves to guard if Jones is healthy.
While Iheanachor brings elite athleticism and upside, Saunders and others questioned the drafting process and the lack of a clear, immediate plan for how the 21st pick would contribute on Pittsburgh’s offensive line. The 2026 class remains a test case for Khan’s approach, with long-term development potentially altering how this pick is perceived.
