2026 NFL Mock Draft 16-20: Steelers add another big wideout; Lions get a running mate for Aidan Hutchinson
No. 16: Carolina Panthers – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
The Panthers get Bryce Young another reliable weapon in USC’s Makai Lemon. The standout wide receiver took home the 2025 Biletnikoff award after a fantastic season at USC. With 79 receptions for 1,156 yards, Lemon not only proved to be the top pass catcher in college football, but a player who brings toughness to the field. Line him up next to Tetairoa McMillan and the Panthers’ offense will have something special brewing.
No. 17: Detroit Lions – Cashius Howell, ED, Texas A&M
The Lions get a running mate for Aidan Hutchinson with the selection of Texas A&M edge Cashius Howell. The SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Howell is explosive off the edge and has an array of pass-rushing moves that makes him tough for blockers. With Hutchinson coming from the other side, the Lions’ defense will have the ability to speed up the game for opposing QBs.
No. 18: New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts – Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
The Jets traded Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline and now replace him with outstanding Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks. At 6-foot-6, 330 pounds, Banks has the combination of size, power and quickness that makes him a disrupter in the middle of the line. With his ability to bull rush from the interior of the line, Banks gives the Jets an anchor in the middle of the line who could prove to be a steal at No. 18 given he was hampered with a foot injury for most of 2025.
No. 19: Tampa Bay Buccaneers– Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The top tight end in college football, Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq brings athleticism and tackle breaking ability to the field. Scouted as a coverage mismatch, Sadiq makes Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense that much more dynamic given their talent at wide receiver and what Bucky Irving adds as a pass-catching running back.
No. 20: Pittsburgh Steelers – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
The Steelers biggest need is quarterback, but with how the draft board has flowed, they will take a shot at one of the remaining prospects on Day 2 of the draft. With this pick, they find their No. 2 receiver in Washington’s Denzel Boston who is another big target who can outmaneuver defenders down the field. With Boston and D.K. Metcalf on the field, the Steelers will have to outside threats who can dominate the boundaries with their size and strength.