Steelers’ Rookies Ink Deals: What’s Next for Pittsburgh?

The Pittsburgh Steelers have wasted no time in getting several of their rookie draft picks under contract. On the second day of the team’s rookie minicamp, they announced that cornerback Daylen Everette, offensive guard Gennings Dunker, and fullback Riley Nowakowski have signed their rookie deals. This follows the signing of three other rookie deals on Friday afternoon. Let’s dive into what these signings mean for the Steelers and what trends they might indicate for the future.

Cornerback Depth and AFC North Competition

Everette’s Role in the Secondary

Daylen Everette, the 85th overall pick in the third round, has signed a four-year deal worth approximately $6.936 million, with a $1.504 million signing bonus. The Georgia product brings a solid combination of youth and experience to the Steelers’ secondary. While he’s expected to start his career as a backup behind Joey Porter Jr., Jamel Dean, and possibly Asante Samuel Jr., his role could quickly expand given Dean’s injury history.

Everette’s starting potential is evident in his press-man coverage skills and experience, but he’ll need to improve his change-of-direction and play to his 4.38 speed to consistently win in coverage. His arrival adds depth to a Steelers secondary facing stiff competition in the AFC North, with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens investing heavily in their receiving corps this draft.

Did you know? Everette is one of only three defensive players drafted by the Steelers in 2026, highlighting the team’s focus on offense in this year’s draft.

Offensive Line Boost with Dunker

The Dunker Hype Train

Gennings Dunker, selected 96th overall in the third round, has agreed to a four-year deal worth about $6.759 million, with a $1.375 million signing bonus. The Steelers traded up to grab Dunker, an aggressive run blocker with a rugged style and a fan-favorite mullet and mustache combo. Pittsburgh is likely to move Dunker from right tackle to guard, where he’ll compete for the left guard spot vacated by Isaac Seumalo.

Dunker’s physicality and experience make him an intriguing prospect, but questions about his athleticism in space may impact his pass protection abilities. He’ll face competition from veterans Spencer Anderson and Brock Hoffman, as well as the possibility of a right guard battle if the team decides to flip tackles Mason McCormick and Troy Fautanu to the left side.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on Dunker’s progress during training camp, as his ability to adapt to guard and contribute in pass protection could determine his starting role.

Fullback’s Role in McCarthy’s Offense

Nowakowski’s Impact on Two-Back Sets

Riley Nowakowski, the 169th overall pick in the fifth round, has signed a four-year contract worth approximately $4.831 million, with a $451,056 signing bonus. Despite being a walk-on linebacker turned tight end at Indiana, Nowakowski’s physicality and versatility make him an intriguing fit for Mike McCarthy’s two-back offense.

Nowakowski is expected to contribute on special teams and play crucial roles in short-yardage and goal-line situations. His ability to block and catch passes in the passing game will be essential in Pittsburgh’s offense. While fifth-round picks aren’t guaranteed roster spots, Nowakowski’s chances look strong if he can stay healthy throughout training camp.

Reader question: How will Nowakowski’s versatility help the Steelers’ offense in 2026?

Trends in Rookie Contracts and Signings

Six of the Steelers’ 10 draft picks are now officially under contract, with first-round offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, second-round wide receiver Germie Bernard, third-round quarterback Drew Allar, and seventh-round running back Eli Heidenreich still unsigned. This trend of signing rookie deals before minicamps and offseason programs begins is becoming more common, as teams aim to get their rookies under contract and on the field as soon as possible.

FAQ

• Q: Why are rookie deals important?

  • A: Rookie deals ensure that teams can focus on developing young talent without the distraction of contract negotiations during the season.

• Q: How do teams determine rookie contract values?

  • A: Contract values are based on draft position, with slotted values determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

Looking Ahead for the Steelers

With six rookies already under contract and minicamp well underway, the Steelers are wasting no time in preparing for the 2026 season. As these rookies continue to develop and compete for starting roles, Pittsburgh’s future looks bright with a mix of veteran leadership and young talent.

Call to Action: Stay tuned to Steelers Depot for more updates on the Steelers’ rookies and the latest news from the team.