Did Steelers’ Mike McCarthy, Omar Khan hint at Makai Lemon pick in NFL Draft?

There could be many landing spots for former USC receiver Makai Lemon. But his pre-draft interviews may have caused a stock drop. However, did Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan of the Pittsburgh Steelers hint at taking Lemon in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Lemon sure turned some heads in his Steelers’ visit, according to a post on X by Chris Adamski.

“The Steelers on-the-record gush about USC WR Makai Lemon’s official visit with the team: ‘He was outstanding… excellent time spent.’ — Omar Khan
‘He was awesome.’ — Mike McCarthy.”

Steelers have many needs entering the draft

On the list are the interior offensive line and safety positions. However, also on the list is a wide receiver. The Steelers have DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. at the head of the class. But things drop off quite a bit after that.

Lemon might make a nice addition. But the Steelers don’t pick until the No. 21 slot in the first round. Will Lemon still be on the board at that point? Would the Steelers move up to draft him? With 12 overall picks, including three in Round 3, they have the capital to spend.

What would Lemon bring to the Steelers? He won’t match the physical traits of Metcalf or Pittman. But he would give the Steelers a different receiver who might fit in very nicely to the offense, according to The Athletic.

“Lemon doesn’t wow with his size or athletic profile, but he is a smooth, manipulative route runner and catches everything thrown his way,” Dane Brugler wrote. “Similar in ways to fellow former Trojans receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, he already plays like a pro and projects as an NFL starter (Z or slot).

“Despite lacking top-tier physical traits, Lemon provided multiple examples each game in which his quarterback made a “my guy is better than your guy” throw for Lemon to go get. More often than not, Lemon made the QB right.”

Imagine defenses having to concern themselves with Metcalf and Pittman on the perimeter, with Lemon causing problems from the slot. That’s why the Steelers have their eyes wide open on Lemon.

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