The ‘On The Clock’ team of Matt Williamson, Mike Prisuta, and Max Starks discussed on Mar. 12 the leading offensive tackle prospects for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, which is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh this April.
The discussion is significant as offensive tackles are considered one of the most sought-after positions after quarterbacks in the National Football League. Teams often look to strengthen their rosters through the draft rather than free agency due to scarcity at this position.
Williamson said that while there may not be an elite offensive tackle prospect this year, playoff teams could still find valuable players late in the first round. His top five rankings include Francis Mauigoa from Miami, Spencer Fano from Utah, Monroe Freeling from Georgia, Max Iheanachor from Arizona State, and Kadyn Proctor from Alabama. He also named Jude Bowry of Boston College as a sleeper pick who could develop into a starter with more experience.
Prisuta echoed concerns about depth at the position. He cited NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah: “There are 7 OT’s with potential to go in 1st rd… If you want one, you are going to probably have to take one higher than you’d like in RD 1.” ESPN draft analyst Tidd McShay was also quoted: “Eight OL come flying off the board in RD1/top-40 overall… The shelf drops off drastically after that, especially at OT.” Prisuta’s rankings included Mauigoa and Fano at the top, followed by Caleb Lomu (Utah), Proctor (Alabama), and Iheanachor (Arizona State). Markell Bell of Miami was his sleeper pick.
Starks described this year’s group as large and essential for many teams. His list featured Mauigoa and Fano as leading prospects along with Freeling (Georgia), Blake Miller (Clemson), and Lomu (Utah). Keagan Trost of Missouri was highlighted as a sleeper due to his experience and demeanor.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will host the draft at Acrisure Stadium, where their Hall of Honor Museum displays artifacts celebrating team history according to the official website. The franchise has achieved six Super Bowl championships according to its official website and honors notable figures such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene as listed on its official website. The Steelers also engage fans through historical celebrations and experiences as outlined on their official site.
As anticipation builds for April’s draft event in Pittsburgh, observers will watch closely how teams address their needs at offensive tackle—a position widely regarded as critical for long-term success.
