With the 21st selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers face several options, but bolstering their defense appears logical after last season’s inconsistencies. One position garnering attention is safety, where Dillon Thieneman emerges as a compelling candidate. Analyst Gregg Rosenthal suggests that Thieneman fits the Steelers’ need for a versatile defender, potentially mirroring the impact of established players like Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Rising Draft Profile for Safety Prospect Dillon Thieneman
Dillon Thieneman initially drew evaluations placing him in the late first or early second round, but his draft stock has climbed steadily, with mocks positioning him around the middle of the first round. Rosenthal remarked on Thieneman’s appeal as a possible early first-round pick, highlighting teams such as the Vikings, Bengals, and notably the Steelers as potential destinations. He said,
“It was hard not to see him, as not just a first-round pick, but maybe a first half of the first-round pick. Like, there’s a potential that that happens. I started thinking about the teams that could use him. For the Vikings as a Harrison Smith replacement. It’d be high for the Bengals, but they’re absolutely looking for that type of player. The Steelers, for like a Minkah Fitzpatrick-type,”
adding,
“Everyone’s looking for one of these types of players. And I think he’s gonna get taken somewhere in the top 25 picks.”
— Gregg Rosenthal, NFL Analyst
Exceptional Athleticism Demonstrated at NFL Combine
Thieneman’s performance at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis enhanced his appeal significantly. He completed the 40-yard dash in an impressive 4.35 seconds, recorded a 41-inch vertical jump, and completed 18 reps on the bench press. Additionally, NFL Next Gen Stats gave him an athleticism rating of 86, the highest among safeties in the draft class. This blend of speed, power, and explosiveness distinguishes him physically from his peers.
Comprehensive Skill Set Highlights Defensive Versatility
Beyond his athleticism, Thieneman’s instincts shine, particularly in zone coverage. His combination of anticipation and speed disrupts opposing passing attacks, and he demonstrates strong ball skills. He is capable of contributing anywhere on the field, showing a downhill approach to run defense and promising versatility that aligns well with defensive schemes emphasizing adaptability.
Areas Needing Improvement Reflect Challenges for Steelers’ Defense
Despite his upward trajectory, Thieneman exhibits some shortcomings that mirror issues faced by the Steelers last season. His pursuit angles sometimes falter, and he tends to tackle higher on opponents, which reduces effectiveness. Additionally, his ability to disengage from blocks lacks consistent strength, and his performance in man coverage against elusive receivers remains an area of concern.
Steelers’ Roster Dynamics Could Influence Draft Decision
How the Steelers approach drafting a safety in the first round depends heavily on their plans for existing personnel. Jalen Ramsey shifted to safety last season but may return to cornerback, while DeShon Elliott is expected to be back but lacks substantial depth behind him. These uncertainties emphasize the value of acquiring a dynamic defender like Thieneman, who could fill multiple roles if needed.
Potential Impact of Selecting Thieneman in the First Round
Given the need to improve their defensive unit, the Steelers would be hard-pressed to pass on a game-changing player such as Dillon Thieneman. His blend of athletic tools and instincts fits the profile of a player capable of making a significant impact early in his career. As Rosenthal noted, considering Thieneman as early as the 21st overall pick aligns with the Steelers’ objective to reinforce their defense through the draft.
