The ‘On The Clock’ team of Matt Williamson, Mike Prisuta, and Max Starks discussed on Mar. 20 the leading edge rusher prospects for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, which is set to take place in Pittsburgh this April.
This topic is significant as the EDGE position is considered one of the strongest groups in this year’s draft class, with many analysts predicting several players at this position will be selected early and could have a major impact on their future teams.
Williamson said there are several edge defenders likely to be picked early and described the class as deep, noting that some later-round picks could outperform those taken earlier. His top five include Arvell Reese (Ohio State), David Bailey (Texas Tech), Rueben Bain (Miami), Malachi Lawrence (Central Florida), and Cashius Howell (Texas A&M). He also highlighted Jaishawn Barham from Michigan as a sleeper pick.
Prisuta referenced NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah’s view that EDGE is “the overall star of the (NFL Scouting) Combine and of this draft.” Jeremiah ranked three EDGE rushers among his Top 7 candidates available. Prisuta’s own rankings placed Reese first, followed by Bailey, Bain, Howell, and Akheem Mesidor (Miami). Nadame Tucker from Western Michigan was named his sleeper pick. Jeremiah said, “It is a really loaded class,” and added, “The next team I talk to that says they’re set with pass rushers will be the first.”
Starks agreed on the depth of talent at EDGE this year. His rankings put Bailey at number one, followed by Bain, Reese, Keldric Faulk (Auburn), and Mesidor. Zion Young from Missouri was his sleeper selection.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting this year’s draft in a city known for its football history. The franchise has honored figures such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene in their Hall of Honor for their contributions according to the official website. The Steelers have achieved notable success with six Super Bowl championships according to the official website and contribute to community engagement through historical celebrations and fan experiences as outlined on their official website. The Hall of Honor Museum at Acrisure Stadium displays artifacts celebrating these achievements according to the official website. The team has earned recognition through multiple Super Bowl wins and inductions into its Hall of Honor as per the official website, while being affiliated with the National Football League as a member franchise based on information from their official site.
As anticipation builds for April’s draft in Pittsburgh, observers expect strong interest in edge rushers throughout all rounds.
