Steelers 2026 First-Round Pick Has the Potential to Start in Week One
An upper-body injury that sidelined Max Iheanachor for more than two weeks raised questions about whether the Steelers’ 2026 first-round pick would start in Week One. The former Arizona State standout returned to practice this week and remains firmly in contention for the role. His work since returning has provided an encouraging sign ahead of the regular season. Iheanachor will get another opportunity to make his case Thursday against the Buffalo Bills in Pittsburgh’s preseason finale, which will mark his NFL debut.
Steelers insiders believe the 22-year-old still has a chance to earn a starting role in Week One. Following Monday’s practice, Ray Fittipaldo explained on Post-Gazette Sports that Iheanachor received some work with the first-team offense, suggesting Pittsburgh is still evaluating him for the job. Fittipaldo also pointed to the offensive line’s struggles through the first two preseason games, particularly on the right side, where Dylan Cook and Spencer Anderson played into the second half of the latest contest. With the competition still unsettled, Fittipaldo believes a healthy and prepared Iheanachor could make a strong push for the starting spot before the regular-season opener.
During Tuesday’s episode of the Steelers Breakdown podcast, Nick Farabaugh shared his thoughts on the outlook for the Steelers’ offensive line in 2026. He remarked, “The big, kind of looming thing is it seems like Max Iheanachor is back.” He explained, “He practiced the last two days in pads. It seems like he is going to play on Thursday. All of a sudden, we may have put the nail in the coffin a little too early for Max Iheanachor’s starting chances. He has a shot to come in late and get that job.”
Merril Hoge added to the praise for Iheanachor during an appearance on 102.5 WDVE’s Morning Show on Wednesday. The former Steelers running back described the rookie as a potential “eraser” because of his ability to take defenders out of a play. “That means whoever lines up against him is done,” Hoge said. Hoge was also impressed by Iheanachor’s pass protection, noting that Pittsburgh has several talented pass rushers and “nobody beat him.”
During his time at Arizona State, Iheanachor played in 32 games, starting in 31. He was named to the second team All-Big 12 in 2025. He played 860 snaps during the season and didn’t allow any sacks. He only allowed three quarterback hits and 11 hurries, for a total of 14 pressures. Recent developments are encouraging for Iheanachor. He’s already getting starting reps at practice. Playing in Thursday's preseason game will give him a chance to show the coaches what he can bring to the offensive line. The Steelers’ first regular-season game is on September 13th, so he’ll have some time to work towards securing a starting role in Week One.
