As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are weighing options to find a complementary cornerback alongside Joey Porter Jr., their standout No. 32 overall pick from 2023. Despite Porter Jr.’s notable progress throughout 2025, the team continues to search for a reliable partner to solidify their cornerback duo.
Among speculation, CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell has spotlighted Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell as a promising candidate, placing him at No. 21 overall in his latest 2026 mock draft projection. The Steelers’ interest in enhancing their secondary with a dynamic playmaker aligns with their historical evaluations and current defensive needs.
Exploring Avieon Terrell as a Potential Cornerback Addition
Terrell’s skillset, as detailed by Podell, emphasizes his instincts and speed, highlighted by his record-setting ability to force fumbles during his college career. With five forced fumbles in the 2025 season alone, he set Clemson records for defensive backs in both single-season and career totals. Podell further noted,
“Terrell has great instincts and quickness. The 2025 All-ACC First Team selection set Clemson records for a defensive back in forced fumbles in a season (five in 2025) and career (eight from 2023-25),” Garrett Podell, CBS Sports analyst
In addition to his ball-hawking abilities, Terrell’s agility and light footwork make him especially effective as a slot corner, excelling in short-zone coverage and exhibiting strength in run defense. While he may face challenges against larger receivers on the outside, his versatility as a blitzer enhances his value.
“Terrell could add some much-needed youth to the Steelers’ secondary besides Joey Porter Jr.,” Garrett Podell, CBS Sports analyst
The Steelers’ Draft Strategy and Defensive Priorities Under Mike McCarthy
While the Steelers have historically focused on improving their offense under new head coach Mike McCarthy, the need for defensive playmakers remains. McCarthy’s background as an offensive coach—the first since Bill Austin in 1968 for the Steelers—signals potential shifts in drafting priorities, but the defense is unlikely to be overlooked.
The possibility of Aaron Rodgers returning could influence whether the team invests in a prominent defensive player or instead focuses on offensive support. Notably, despite the Steelers taking one cornerback in the first round over the past 28 drafts, that pick—Artie Burns in 2016—did not meet expectations, raising questions on the value of an early selection at the position.
With Porter Jr. being a relatively recent second-round pick in 2023, the organization’s approach to drafting corners in the first round remains cautious but not impossible.
Why A Young Cornerback Like Terrell Matches Steelers’ Current Plans
Over the last few years, the Steelers have attempted to bolster their cornerback group by signing established veterans such as Patrick Peterson and Darius Slay, along with acquiring Donte Jackson and Jalen Ramsey via trade. These moves, however, have not fully addressed the team’s secondary challenges.
Given Joey Porter Jr.’s growing experience with 41 career starts, the Steelers may now be more comfortable pairing him with a less seasoned cornerback. This would allow the team to integrate fresh talent without over-relying on immediate rookie starters, especially since veterans like Jalen Ramsey and Brandin Echols remain under contract.
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com highlights Terrell’s readiness for an NFL role, stating,
“Avieon shares the same bloodlines and coverage temperament as his brother, A.J., a first-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2020,”
“Terrell projects as an early starter thanks to his polish, ball skills and coverage versatility.”
This blend of experience and adaptability could make Terrell an ideal candidate to pair with Porter Jr., especially given his proven playmaking impact at Clemson and strong athletic traits.
Implications for the Steelers’ Future Defensive Backfield
The Steelers’ decision in the 2026 draft concerning their cornerback selection will significantly influence the development of their secondary. Integrating a talented prospect like Avieon Terrell alongside Joey Porter Jr. could inject youthful energy and improve defensive consistency.
With the team grappling to establish a dependable No. 2 cornerback, Terrell’s entry offers a chance to elevate the secondary’s overall performance. Whether the Steelers prioritize offense or defense in the draft, the importance of pairing Porter Jr. with a capable partner remains clear.
As the offseason progresses, the Steelers’ choices will likely reflect a balancing act between protecting a budding quarterback situation and shoring up a defensive backfield eager for renewed impact. The addition of Terrell or a similar prospect could be a decisive move toward stabilizing their cornerback room for years to come.
