Pittsburgh Steelers Selected Arizona State Tackle Max Iheanachor in First Round of 2026 NFL Draft

Why it matters locally: Arizona football fans will be closely following Max Iheanachor's career as he transitions from Arizona State University to the Pittsburgh Steelers, representing a significant moment for the university's football program and its supporters.

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The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The pick was announced by Steelers legend Jerome Bettis. The 2026 NFL Draft, held in Pittsburgh, drew a record attendance of 805,000 fans over three days, including 320,000 for the first round alone, surpassing the previous record of 275,000 set in Detroit in 2024. According to Bettis, the Steelers focused on offensive talent during the draft, selecting seven offensive players out of their ten total picks. These selections include Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard, who had 64 receptions for 862 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Additionally, Penn State quarterback Drew Allar was selected by the team. Bettis also attended the "Immaculate Reception" weekend at Nemacolin, celebrating the historic play and joined by other Steelers legends such as Terry Bradshaw. The weekend also featured the release of "The Divinity Draft", a limited-edition beer inspired by the event.