2026 NFL Mock Draft 16-20: Steelers get a steal at QB?
No. 16: Carolina Panthers – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
The Panthers pass on addressing defense to add another offensive weapon in USC’s Makai Lemon. A wide receiver with speed and great route-running technique, the Panthers find the perfect complement to Tetairoa McMillan in the offense. The USC star has emerged in 2025 with 48 receptions for 758 yards. He gives the Panthers’ offense outside speed and a reliable threat down the field.
No. 17: Chicago Bears– Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
With Jeremiah Love off the board, the Bears set their attention on beefing up the defensive line. They do that with the selection of Caleb Banks with the No. 17 overall pick in the draft. Following a breakout season in 2024, Banks has been hampered with a foot injury in 2025. However, when healthy, Banks is a disruptor in the interior of the defensive line with his 6-foot-6, 330-pound frame.
No. 18: Cleveland Browns via Jacksonville – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The Cleveland Browns use their second first round pick on Ohio State star wide receiver Carnell Tate. A tall receiver at 6-foot-3, Tate gives the Browns’ offense a savvy route runner with the toughness to win battles on the ball despite his slender 190-pound flame. He would be a good addition to an offense that now features former Ohio State teammate Quinshon Judkins and tight end Harold Fannin Jr.
No. 19: Pittsburgh Steelers – Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
The Steelers take the sixth QB in the first round with the selection of LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier. This could be a win for both the Steelers and Nussmeier who entered the 2025 college football season as a top 3 quarterback prospect. That status has slipped a bit, but he does have the talent to shine as a starting QB at the next level with the right coaching and team surrounding him.
No. 20: San Francisco 49ers – Francis Mauigoa, T, Miami
The 49ers get a win at No. 20 with the selection of Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa. The big offensive lineman can play both tackle spots and shift inside to guard at the NFL level if needed. Mauigoa would be a prime candidate to take over at left tackle for the 49ers.