The Pittsburgh Steelers announced on Apr. 24 that several former players and notable figures will take the stage to announce the team’s selections during the 2026 National Football League Draft, which begins tonight in Pittsburgh.
This year’s draft holds special significance for both fans and the city, as it is being hosted in Pittsburgh with prominent past Steelers participating in key moments. Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis will reveal the team’s first-round pick from a stage on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. “It means a lot to me,” said Bettis. “To be able to announce the first-round pick in this city, it’s a special moment that I don’t take lightly. I’m very thankful for the opportunity. Of all the great players that have played for this historic franchise, for them to ask me to do it is special.” He added, “It’s a brilliant, incredible, beautiful city. This is a really coming out party for the city on a world-wide stage.” Bettis will be joined by Jerome Bettis Leadership Award winners during his announcement.
Hall of Famer John Stallworth will handle announcing duties for the second-round pick on night two of the draft. Reflecting on his own experience as part of an acclaimed Steelers draft class, Stallworth said, “It’s special that I would be asked… To represent them and know that my story is certainly a good example of what was going on at that time.” He also plans to honor legendary scout Bill Nunn during his appearance: “Bill’s story and his history with Black colleges… that’s worthy of being told again… Just to be a part of that story… is an honor.” Stallworth emphasized how hosting this event showcases both team legacy and community impact: “This tells the story and gives emphasis to what the Draft has meant to Pittsburgh…”
Joey Porter Sr., along with his son Joey Porter Jr., will announce one third-round selection together—highlighting family ties within Steelers football history. Other participants include Charlie Batch alongside members from Best of the Batch Foundation; actor Michael Keaton; Hall of Honor defensive lineman Aaron Smith with Art Rooney Scholarship recipients; center Zach Frazier accompanied by patients from UPMC Children’s Hospital through Beyond The Game program; former safety Will Allen joined by Blue Square Alliance students; and international guests Sascha Denzinger (Steelers International Fan of The Year) with Patrick Owomoyela.
The Steelers are recognized not only for their six Super Bowl championships but also for honoring individuals such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene through their Hall of Honor according to their official website. Their historical celebrations contribute significantly to fan engagement as outlined online, while artifacts commemorating these achievements are displayed at Acrisure Stadium’s Hall of Honor Museum according to team sources.
As an established member franchise within the National Football League based on official information, recognition through multiple Super Bowl victories continues strengthening both tradition and community pride as per official records. Hosting this year’s NFL Draft further highlights these connections between legacy players, current stars, local youth leaders, fans worldwide—and underscores ongoing contributions by those affiliated with one of football’s most storied teams.
