Steelers' Forgotten 2023 Draftee Arises Amidst Contract Talks Around Team

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 offseason has been one of the more hectic ones in recent memory. This month alone, both edge rusher Nick Herbig and tight end Darnell Washington signed extensions with the team, and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. may be the next one in line to receive a big payday from the franchise. Both standout defensive players were a part of the organization's 2023 NFL Draft class. Porter is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign, so it is highly likely he will get an extension soon. However, there is one forgotten member of that 2023 class that is not being discussed enough.

Chris Adamski of TribLive recently wrote about the 2023 class, which is where this forgotten player surfaces. While one of the two standout defenders got their extension, he also drops someone on the offensive side of the football outside of Washington. While the name may not be as popular, it is one that has provided the team with some valuable snaps in recent seasons.

"Two current defensive starters drafted by the Steelers before that pair — cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, each a second-rounder — also are eligible for and worthy of contract extensions," Adamski wrote. "Toss in that seventh-rounder Spencer Anderson has been a top reserve and capable fill-in starter on the interior offensive line over the past two seasons and is taking first-team reps at guard this summer, and that leaves the potential for as many as five 2023 Steelers draftees earning a second contract with the team."

Spencer Anderson has provided much-needed depth for a Pittsburgh offensive line that has been hit with injuries in recent years. In fact, the former seventh-round draft pick seems to be turning heads and could possibly earn a starting job in 2026. The offensive line, which is relatively young, really started to gel last season despite the learning curve that currently exists.

Anderson, a University of Maryland product, is about to enter his fourth season with the organization. One big factor in the situation around a potential deal for him is that he was a late round pick at 251st overall. That could provide the franchise some leverage, should they decide to work on reaching out to him for a contract extension.

Steelers' Offensive Line Could Be Elite In 2026

With the return of Aaron Rodgers for the 2026 season, offensive line is an extremely important group that is pivotal to their potential success. Rodgers will turn 43 in December, so the team having a strong year and keeping the four-time NFL MVP upright will be extremely important given the new weapons the team added for the 2026 season on offense.

Anderson currently ranks at 54th out of 81 qualifying NFL offensive guards according to Pro Football Focus. This ranking is due to a grade by the outlet of 56.8 overall. However, with Adamski pointing out that he is receiving first-team reps at guard, that could mean he is poised for an increased role at the position for the 2026 season. This is where he could not only earn himself a payday, but also has the chance to grow and be part of a significant group on the team.

There certainly is still plenty to iron out ahead of the 2026 regular season with the team still not being at the start of training camp yet. However, if Organized Team Activities are any indicator for the role the Maryland product will play in 2026, this could be his chance at a long look as an NFL guard. Should he step up and answer the bell, it would most likely yield great results for the Steelers this upcoming season, and help Anderson professionally.

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