2026 NFL Mock Draft 26-32: Steelers, Browns insert new QBs into the AFC North
No. 26: Pittsburgh Steelers – John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma
The Steelers get a quarterback in John Mateer who, before his injury, was playing like a top 10 quarterback. Before his injury, Mateer has proven to be a dual-threat quarterback with great arm talent. His accuracy along with his prototypical size for a quarterback makes him an intriguing prospect for any of the teams in need of a quarterback. In Pittsburgh he’ll have a chance to succeed immediately.
No. 27: Cleveland Browns via Jacksonville – Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
There will be some options here at quarterback for the Browns which is a reason they went with position player with their first pick. With their second pick in the first round, the Browns select Alabama’s Ty Simpson with the No. 27 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the mix, the selection of Simpson could lead them to move on from either player. Simpson has been great so far this season with Alabama throwing for 1,478 yards with 13 touchdowns and just 1 interception.
No. 28: Detroit Lions – Connor Lew, C, Auburn
Auburn’s Connor Lew is a great fit for the Detroit Lions with the No. 28 overall pick. With Lew as their future at center, the interior of the Lions’ offensive line will be set with Tate Ratledge also securing one of the guard positions for years to come. The physicality of both players will help set the tone of the offensive line.
No. 29: Buffalo Bills– Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
The Bills get Josh Allen another wide receiver with the selection of Chris Brazzell II. The Tennessee star has been one of the top wide receivers in the nation with 31 receptions for 531 yards and 7 touchdowns. His 6-foot-5, 200-pound frame makes him another big-bodied receiver with speed Allen will see as a luxury in the Bills’ offense.
No. 30: Tampa Bay Buccaneers– LT Overton, ED, Alabama
With the No. 30 overall pick, the Buccaneers select Alabama defensive end/edge LT Overton. A run stopper who can get to the quarterback, Overton will be a nice attention to a defensive line that features Greg Gaines and Vita Vea.
No. 31: San Francisco 49ers– Kaydyn Proctor, T, Alabama
A big tackle who is showing versatility at Alabama this season, Kaydyn Proctor still being on the board at No. 31 will be a prize for the 49ers. The big tackle has shown over the last couple of weeks that he can do more in the offense besides block. Alabama has used his size as a target in the screen game and have also used him as a fullback in short yardage situations.
No. 32: Indianapolis Colts – Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
The Colts look to be set at quarterback with the revival of Daniel Jones. However, the Colts see Drew Allar still sitting there at the end of Day 1 and adds quarterback security with this selection. The team will still have a decision to make with Anthony Richardson Sr., but bringing in Allar to add competition at the position will only benefit the Colts here.