The Pittsburgh Steelers are approaching a decision that could place Max Iheanachor directly into the fire. Their first-round pick played only one preseason game after an injury interrupted his summer, yet he remains in contention to start at right tackle. His mentality after an uneven debut makes that possibility exciting.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers' offensive lineman Max Iheanachor stands on the field as the team warms up prior to getting a practice session done during 2026 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
The rookie surrendered a sack, committed penalties and occasionally arrived late with his hands against the Buffalo Bills. He also improved as the game progressed and displayed impressive movement in space. Pittsburgh saw a young lineman capable of processing adversity while the action continued.
Iheanachor reviewed the film and refused to hide from his mistakes when he spoke with reporters Wednesday. Instead of blaming rust or his missed preseason time, the 21st overall selection immediately identified the standard he failed to reach and explained how he responds when something goes wrong.
"First game film, I could have played a lot better," Iheanachor said. "I feel like I could have started off faster. As the game was going on, it was just about making corrections on the run. I am very big on being self-aware when I mess up. I know what I need to do, and I try to fix it on the run and be better the next play."
That answer explains why Pittsburgh remains intrigued despite the difficult moments. Every rookie tackle will lose repetitions against NFL defenders. The important distinction is whether a player recognizes the reason, accepts the correction and prevents the same technical failure from becoming a permanent weakness.
Iheanachor settling into the game proved his words were more than a polished response. He looked increasingly comfortable and began displaying the physical traits that made him a first-round selection.
"One hundred percent," Iheanachor said when asked if he was finding a groove. "I feel like going out there with the guys was one of the best things that could have happened coming back. I'm just excited and having fun while I'm out there, man."
Mike McCarthy indicated earlier this week that the upcoming practices would be important for determining Iheanachor's place in the Week 1 plan. The rookie said that message was not delivered directly to him and declined to treat every repetition like a public audition. His focus remained on improving rather than attempting to interpret the coach's comments.
The official depth chart continues to list Dylan Cook as the starting right tackle, with Iheanachor behind him. Cook held the job through most of the summer and provides a more experienced option if the coaching staff believes its rookie needs additional development. Iheanachor believes he belongs in that opportunity. His confidence does not sound arrogant because he connects it to preparation and faith rather than entitlement.
"Yeah, I truly believe in the work I put in to be in this position," Iheanachor said. "I wouldn't be here if not. I'm just always trusting God's timing. He put me here for a reason, so just let His will be done."
Steelers May Have Found The Right Rookie For A Difficult Assignment
Iheanachor's debut did not prove he is ready to neutralize accomplished pass rushers. His technique needs refinement, and protecting Aaron Rodgers creates little room for repeated mistakes. Cook remains a legitimate alternative.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during a 2025 training camp practice at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
However, Pittsburgh appears to have found someone mentally prepared for the uncomfortable development process. Iheanachor studies his failures, corrects himself during games and refuses to become consumed by the pressure surrounding a potential starting assignment. Those traits give elite coaching something worth shaping.
The coming practices will determine whether Iheanachor starts Week 1, but his opportunity appears to be approaching quickly regardless. Pittsburgh should expect growing pains. It should also feel encouraged that the rookie being thrown into the fire already understands how to respond when he gets burned.
Find me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and share where you stand on Pittsburgh's right-tackle competition. Follow for continued Steelers roster coverage throughout the season. Should Iheanachor start immediately, or has Cook done enough to keep the job entering Week 1?
#SteelerNation