IOWA CITY — The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Iowa offensive lineman Gennings Dunker in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Dunker started nearly 40 games in his Hawkeye career, primarily at right tackle.
Dunker was a part of a successful offensive line rebuild under position coach George Barnett. After performing below the program standard, Iowa's offensive line returned to dominant form in 2024 and 2025. The group won the 2025 Joe Moore Award, which recognizes the most outstanding offensive line in college football. Dunker was also named first team All-Big Ten by the media last season.
Dunker has become somewhat of an internet sensation, especially during the pre-Draft process, as the NFL world has discovered his rugged look and eccentric personality.
Now, Dunker takes the next step in his football career.
Dunker is a three-year starter with a pro-ready frame but limited athleticism that is likely to push him inside to guard. He plays with average pad level, heavy hands and enough upper-body power to displace defenders if he plays with more consistent hand placement. His lateral quickness is average and his movements in space are mechanical, leading to difficulty making needed adjustments. The move inside should accentuate his play strength and allow him to get on top of opponents more quickly, but sub-package rushers and gaming fronts could be an ongoing challenge.
Outstanding frame with proportional build and good lean mass.
Throws heavy hand strikes into first contact in the run game.
Protection posture features a tucked chin and flat back.
Able to sink eventual anchor after being bounced early.
Segmented mover getting from block to block on combos.
Inconsistent pad level and centering getting into blocks.
Needs better hand placement to prevent slipping off of blocks.
Below-average punch timing gets him stabbed and rocked back into pocket.
Heavy legs and tight hips hinder ability to mirror and recover when needed.
Can be caught off-guard and out of position against twists.
Gennings Dunker (6’5 320) Iowa+ Awareness against stunts + Blocking at the second level+ Nastiness to his game+ Tackle/guard versatility+ Over 2,200 career snaps played+ 80.0 run block grade in 2025+ Impressive leg drive+ Good grip strength- Eleven career penalties-… pic.twitter.com/PITB7jhcuI
— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) January 28, 2026
Follow Tyler Tachman on X @Tyler_T15, contact via email at ttachman@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Gennings Dunker draft: Steelers pick Iowa OL in NFL draft