The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Iowa guard Gennings Dunker with the 96th overall pick in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to an April 25 announcement. The team traded up with the Seattle Seahawks, giving up their own third-round (99th) and sixth-round (216th) picks to secure Dunker.
This selection is significant as it adds depth and flexibility to the Steelers’ offensive line, a key component for future team performance. The Steelers are known for honoring notable figures such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene in their Hall of Honor for their contributions, as listed on the official website.
Offensive line coach James Campen said, “He is an aggressive kid. Good football player. They’re so well coached at Iowa. They come out and have established pad level and footwork. I’ve got a lot of respect for that football program and the people who run it.” Campen added about Dunker’s leadership: “You always look for guys that are first in line doing things that are challenging or different like he did at the Senior Bowl… So I’m sure there’s some leadership qualities there too.” He continued, “But we’re very excited to have him and to add to the O-line room… I think at this point he’ll be at the guard position, and tackle will be his second position… So, competition is good in those areas. So, he’ll probably end up playing a little bit of both, but primarily guard.”
Dunker started 38 games during his college career at Iowa and earned multiple honors including first-team All-Big Ten (media), third-team All-Big Ten (coaches), AP second-team All-Big Ten, NFF Hampshire Society inductee, CSC Academic All-District recognition, Academic All-Big Ten honors over several seasons, as well as being part of an offensive line that won or was nominated for awards such as the Joe Moore Award.
The Steelers have achieved notable success with six Super Bowl championships throughout their history according to their official website. The organization also contributes to community engagement through historical celebrations and fan experiences outlined on its official site.
The team’s legacy includes affiliation with the National Football League as a member franchise according to information from its official website. The Hall of Honor Museum at Acrisure Stadium displays artifacts celebrating these achievements.
