Steelers' Troy Fautanu Sends Direct Message To New Coaching Staff After Position Change

The Pittsburgh Steelers began 2026 Organized Team Activities (OTAs) on Monday and plenty of new faces were out on the field. The majority of the coaching staff has just recently come from outside of the organization and there are a solid number of players that will wear the Black and Gold for the first time in their careers. There are going to be some adjustments that returning individuals need to make, but, overall, the excitement is at an all-time high as the collective begins preparation for what will hopefully be at least one postseason victory. Head Coach Mike McCarthy has a lot to work with.

One of the biggest question marks following the 2026 NFL Draft was the Steelers' offensive line. Broderick Jones is still recovering from a rather serious neck injury, so the franchise might have to get creative right off the bat. That was the case on Monday when the decision was made to move both Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick from the right side to the left.

This is nowhere near set in stone, particularly because Jones may be able to return for the start of the regular season. He was seen stretching with his teammates during the first session of OTAs.

If he does end up making a full recovery and is starting at left tackle for Pittsburgh, many have wondered if the new coaching staff would consider moving Fautanu inside to guard, mainly due to the fact that Max Iheanachor was taken in the first round. According to Mark Kaboly, Fautanu has no interest in changing positions anytime soon.

"'I don't want to play guard ... but if I have to, I will. Troy Fautanu,'" Kaboly posted on X.

This isn't just a simple message from Fautanu. It's a strong one. He is very comfortable playing tackle and next to McCormick. That could be one of the main reasons for Pittsburgh shifting McCormick over as well. The Steelers have had some inconsistent line issues in recent years, so the team forcing Fautanu to play guard could lead to even more issues. All of this will depend on Jones and if he is able to suit up come September.

It is crucial to have a star-studded offensive line in the NFL if that specific team wants to be successful. There has been some turnover in the area for Pittsburgh, but the front office has remained focused on upgrading the unit every single chance it has had. Fautanu might very well be the most talented of the group, so it should be taken into account when he is clearly stating that he does not want to do something.

There are always plenty of overreactions when OTAs begin; however, it is pretty telling that the first grouping thrown together was the one that the Steelers had on Monday. Theoretically, a healthy Jones could play left tackle while Iheanachor takes over on the right. This would then leave McCormick and Fautanu at the two guard spots.

There remain a lot of unknowns about what the coaching staff wants to do with the individuals that will be protecting the quarterback. With that said, Fautanu putting his opinion right out in the open for everyone to hear, including the decision-makers such as McCarthy, is telling.

Steelers Cannot Afford To Mess Up Fautanu's Development

Fautanu has the talents to become one of the best tackles in the league. Moving him to guard after his first two professional seasons would likely be a mistake. He's good enough to handle the transition, but tackles are hard to find and not cheap. Jones' fifth-year option was not picked up, meaning his future with the Steelers is very much in doubt. The staff should have Fautanu lock in at the position he has been playing since arriving in the Steel City.

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