Mike McCarthy’s Strong Combine Impressions Could Shape Steelers’ 2026 Draft Class

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ new head coach, Mike McCarthy, is already making a strong impression on members of the 2026 NFL Draft class. McCarthy, a native of Pittsburgh, is preparing for his first draft at the helm of the franchise, and several top prospects praised their interactions with him during media sessions at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Quarterbacks were especially vocal about their admiration. Alabama’s Ty Simpson described meeting McCarthy as a major learning experience, saying, “A guy like that who has had success in the league for a long time and is well respected, any time I get to sit in an interview and soak up all that knowledge, it’s anything I could ask for.” LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, whose father previously coached under McCarthy in Dallas, called him “very passionate about winning.” Penn State’s Drew Allar also praised the coach, highlighting that McCarthy challenged him with the most detailed X’s and O’s discussion of any team interview. Allar added that McCarthy even grilled him about growing up in Cleveland, making the meeting both intense and engaging.

Wide receivers shared similar enthusiasm. Alabama’s Germie Bernard said McCarthy spent significant time discussing his family background, his physical style of play, and his ability to gain yards after the catch. Indiana’s Elijah Surratt described meeting the Super Bowl–winning coach as “surreal,” underscoring McCarthy’s influence on potential draft choices.

McCarthy’s Leadership and Reputation Impress Prospects Across Multiple Key Positions

Other prospects echoed the sentiment across positions. Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday, a longtime Packers fan, expressed excitement at meeting McCarthy. Iowa State nose tackle Dominque Orange was impressed upon learning McCarthy now leads the Steelers, recalling his time coaching in Dallas and Green Bay.

The early feedback from Indianapolis suggests that McCarthy is leaving a positive and lasting impression on top prospects. With Pittsburgh focusing on key positions such as wide receiver and maintaining a competitive roster, McCarthy’s reputation and personal connections appear to be helping the Steelers position themselves favorably for the 2026 NFL Draft. His combination of experience, football knowledge, and approachable personality is resonating across quarterbacks, skill players, and defenders alike.

The Scouting Combine meetings indicate that McCarthy’s first draft in Pittsburgh could benefit from strong relationships and trust already being established with elite prospects, potentially shaping the Steelers’ roster for years to come.