Yes, it’s actually me, a human. At least I’m occasionally described as such.
As a human who enjoys pro football, the draft is of paramount importance to me each year. It prominently packages and displays team acumen in player evaluation, draft board manipulation, personnel management and overall roster deployment smarts. It’s where Super Bowl winners often add their final pieces or rebuilding teams establish their foundations. Aside from free agency, it’s pretty much the determining factor in a given team’s immediate and assumed trajectory through the standings.
The AFC North typically drafts well, as evidenced by the amount of Pro Bowl and Hall of Fame players that have cycled through it since its inception. That these players are dispersed throughout the division just adds credence to that determination. Given the draft positions of all four teams, this year’s AFC North draft haul will probably continue these trends.
At least their respective personnel decision makers hope so.
Here’s a quick look at each team’s draft needs, list of picks, and some possibilities. Enjoy.
Pittsburgh Steelers
2025 record: 10-7, 1st in AFC North
2026 picks:
- Round 1: No. 21 overall
- Round 2: No. 53 overall
- Round 3: No. 76 overall (via Cowboys),
- Round 3: No. 85,
- Round 3 (comp): No. 99
- Round 4: No. 121, No. 135
- Round 5: No. 161
- Round 6 (comp): No. 216
- Round 7 (via Patriots): No. 224
- Round 7 (via Colts): No. 230
- Round 7: No. 237
Storyline:
The fact that the Steelers do not currently have an established quarterback on the roster has fueled extensive speculation regarding how that might be remedied. Assumed holdover Aaron Rodgers has yet to commit to playing at all in 2026, let alone for the Steelers, yet it’s widely assumed he’ll return, given the presence of new Steelers and former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, who enjoyed a solid working relationship with Rodgers that resulted in a Super Bowl win. Should the Steelers opt to draft another quarterback, it will likely be in the middle rounds in the form of a Carson Beck or Garrett Nussmeier.
Regardless of Rodgers’ status, the team is expected to address their interior offensive line early. Vega Ioane (G-Penn St.) would be a formidable plug-and-play option, as he’s widely considered the top interior lineman in the draft. The Steelers would have to consider using both of their first round to trade up if they truly want Ioane.
Additional needs: WR, S, CB
Baltimore Ravens
2025 record: 8-9, 2nd in AFC North
2026 picks:
- Round 1: No. 14
- Round 2: No. 45
- Round 3: No. 80
- Round 4: No. 115
- Round 5: Nos. 154,
- Round 5 (via Chargers):162
- Round 5 (comp): No. 173
- Round 5 (comp): No. 174
- Round 6: No. 211
- Round 7 (comp): No. 250
- Round 7 (comp): No. 253
Storyline:
The Ravens retained their 2026 and 2027 first round picks after their projected trade for Raiders DE Maxx Crosby fell through due to failed physical. Although they scrambled to eventually sign DE Trey Hendrickson as a viable replacement, the need for additional pass rushers remains. Given the dwindling depth on their offensive line, however, most expect them to select Spencer Fano (G/T-Utah), whose versatility and future projection as a starting left tackle would serve him/them well. Ioane remains a fallback position should he remain available at #14.
Additional needs: DT, WR, CB
Cincinnati Bengals
2025 record: 6-11, 3rd in AFC North
2026 picks:
- Round 2: No. 41
- Round 3: No. 72
- Round 4: No. 110
- Round 6: No. 189
- Round 6 (via Lions): No. 199
- Round 7 (via Giants): No. 221
- Round 7: No. 226
Storyline:
After trading their fist round selection (#10 overall) to the Giants for DT Dexter Lawrence, the need for defensive line depth is somewhat alleviated. The Bengals still have plenty of needs to consider, particularly on defense. There’s also a significant need for offensive linemen, as incumbent QB Joe Burrow’s injury history gets more extensive each year, requiring better overall protection. Chase Bisontis (G-Texas A&M) is a real possibility in the second round.
Additional needs: CB, Edge, LB
Cleveland Browns
2025 record: 5-12
2026 picks:
- Round 1: No. 6
- Round 1 (via Jaguars): No. 24
- Round 2: No. 39
- Round 3: No. 70
- Round 4: No. 107
- Round 5: No. 146
- Round 5 (via Bengals): No. 149
- Round 6 (via Bears): No. 206
- Round 7 (via Seahawks): No. 248
Storyline:
Continuing the unintended theme of selecting offensive line early, the Browns will likely…select offensive line early. They are in dire need of a competent, starting-level left tackle; possibilities include Monroe Freeling (T-Georgia), who at 6’7′, 315 lbs. appears to be an ideal fit. Given their dearth of receiving talent, the Browns could possibly pick up WRs Jordyn Tyson or Denzel Boston, provided they remain on the board.
Additional needs: LB, TE, S, CB
Best of luck!
