Pittsburgh Takeover: Mendoza Goes #1, The Steelers Secure a “Slab,” and Wiz Comes Home

The 2026 NFL Draft has officially turned the Steel City into a massive stage, blending high-stakes football with the raw energy of the Pittsburgh music scene. Day 1 is in the books, and while the scouts were checking talent, the culture was checking the vibes. The takeover is just heating up.

1. The Big 3: Raiders, Jets, and Cardinals Strike Early

The draft board looked like a Heisman ceremony early on.

• The No. 1 Pick: As expected, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza. The Heisman winner and national champion is being hailed as the “Tom Brady 2.0,” with Brady himself reportedly involved in the mentorship plan.
• The Defensive Juggernaut: The New York Jets took Texas Tech Edge David Bailey at #2. Insiders are calling him the “Slashing Guard” of the defensive line—fluid, explosive, and arguably the most dangerous pass rusher in the class.
• The Athletic Freak: At #3, the Arizona Cardinals snagged Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love. Love is widely considered the best pure athlete in the draft, a dual-threat back who can break a game open from anywhere on the field.

2. The Hometown Hero: Steelers Draft Max Iheanachor

The energy in Pittsburgh hit a fever pitch when the Steelers took the podium at #21.

• The Pick: Max Iheanachor, the powerhouse Offensive Tackle from Arizona State.
• The Flex: Iheanachor was an absolute “slab” at ASU, famously allowing zero sacks during his senior season.
• The Crowd Reaction: Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis announced the pick to a deafening “Here We Go” chant, as Iheanachor promised to be a “sponge” and protect the future of the franchise.

3. The Hip Hop Synergy: From The Anthem to The Afterparty

Pittsburgh didn’t just host the draft; they put a soundtrack to it.

• The Gospel Opening: Day 1 opened with a powerful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by the Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh, grounding the event in the city’s rich Black history.
• Wiz Khalifa’s Return: Today (Friday, April 24), the “Prince of the City” himself, Wiz Khalifa, takes the main stage at 5:15 PM ET. He’s set to perform a free concert at the Draft Theater, rumored to be bringing out local legends to solidify the homecoming.
• The Boosie & Jeezy Gala: Tonight, the real celebration moves to the Petersen Events Center, where Jeezy, Boosie, and DJ Envy are hosting a “Draft Weekend” blowout that is expected to be the most exclusive ticket in town.

2026 NFL Draft: Top 10 First-Round Board

4. Shockers & Steals

• The Rams’ Gamble: Perhaps the biggest shock of the night was the LA Rams taking Alabama QB Ty Simpson at #13. This signals a clear “Succession” plan for Matthew Stafford that many didn’t see coming this early.
• The Buckeyes Dominance: The Ohio State proved they are still the “NFL Factory,” with four players (Tate, Reese, Styles, and Downs) all going in the top 11.

Bottom Line: Between the Raiders getting their franchise QB and Wiz Khalifa reclaiming his throne in the North Shore, Pittsburgh is the center of the universe this weekend.

Does the Steelers’ pick of Max Iheanachor finally give them the “Wall” they need to dominate the AFC North, or did they miss out by passing on the flashy playmakers still on the board? Who won the first round? Who are your teams “go after” for round 2? What shows are you pulling up on?