Steelers Nation, we’ve survived Ireland. Despite a last-minute surge from the Minnesota Vikings, the Steelers hit the bye week 3-1 and feeling much better about the defensive woes that plagued the first two games. While Pittsburgh rests up from a physically taxing trip overseas, let’s take a look towards the offseason. There’s still plenty of football left to play at both the college and NFL level, but prospects are starting to shine, and front offices are taking notice. Let’s look at three prospects who’ve shined through the first full month of college football and could prove themselves worthy of being selected by the Steelers in 2026.

QB: Dante Moore, Oregon

With Aaron Rodgers more than likely gone after this season, The Steelers will have a fascinating crop of QB prospects to choose from in 2026. While the projected standouts from this draft have had up-and-down starts, Oregon QB Dante Moore has risen up the rankings with a white-hot start to the season. Moore gambled on a transfer away from UCLA to sit on the bench behind fellow transfer Dillon Gabriel and develop, and it looks like the developmental year in Eugene has paid off.

Accuracy and decision making, both weak points of his as a freshman, have improved greatly, pairing well with his natural arm strength. Oregon’s offensive scheme and personnel have created an environment for Moore to put elite play on tape, and he continues to take advantage of those opportunities. Depending on who else the Steelers sign to fill out the quarterback room, Moore would be a strong candidate for the starting job early on.

WR: KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

With the Steelers currently at 3-1, the chances of them landing a draft pick high enough to grab Arizona State star Jordyn Tyson are low. With that being said, there are plenty of other options further down the board, especially for a team who already has a clear cut WR1 on the roster. DK Metcalf had a breakout game against the Vikings, and Calvin Austin is playing well so far, so the Steelers will look for someone to complement their two established weapons and grow along with their new quarterback (whoever that may be).

Enter KC Concepcion, a shifty receiver out of Texas A&M who possesses elite footwork and body control. His crisp route-running made him a highly coveted asset in the transfer portal (coming from NC State), and he’s built a strong connection with Marcel Reed so far with the Aggies. While his catch percentage might cause some concern among scouts, Concepcion’s playmaking ability would add a new element to Pittsburgh’s offense.

CB D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana

Pittsburgh is determined to get every last drop of quality football out of Darius Slay before he hangs it up, which is admirable. However, much like the quarterback position, they’ll need a replacement soon for the 34 year-old. D’Angelo Ponds followed head coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison to Indiana before their breakout 2024 season. Ponds silently removes his assignment from the play, blanketing receivers with tight man coverage ability. He also has elite ball skills that punish any quarterback who forces the issue. Ponds also performs well when asked to provide run support, making him a versatile defender who will earn playing time at a rapid rate if given an opportunity.