Omar Khan's tenure as general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers faced an unexpected challenge during the 2026 NFL Draft. Initially, it appeared disastrous when Howie Roseman, the general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, traded up to select Makai Lemon, a player the Steelers intended to pick at 20th overall. This moment was not only a setback for Pittsburgh but also became a viral sensation, showcasing Khan's misfortune.

However, the narrative has since shifted. After missing out on Lemon, the Steelers selected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, who has proven to be a valuable asset. Here are some key highlights of his journey:

• Background: Born in Nigeria, Iheanachor began playing football at 13 and quickly rose through the ranks in college football.
• Performance: After overcoming an early injury, he made a significant impact in Week 3, contributing to a 411-yard, 30-point victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Since taking over as the starting right tackle, the Steelers' offense has vastly improved, averaging 29.3 points and 375 total yards per game.

In addition to Iheanachor, the Steelers also drafted receiver Bernard in the second round, who has shown promise even amidst injuries to key players.

• Versatility: Known for his route-running and reliability, Bernard stepped up in a recent game, catching six passes for 80 yards, leading to a 34-22 win over the Indianapolis Colts.

In contrast, Makai Lemon has struggled with the Eagles, catching only 15 of 22 targets for 108 yards so far this season. The Eagles currently sit at 2-3, grappling with various issues, while the Steelers, benefiting from their rookie selections, hold a 3-2 record.

Ultimately, Khan's initial embarrassment may have turned into a strategic advantage, as the Steelers' draft decisions continue to pay off.