Steelers Likely Lose First-Round Rookie in Preseason Opener

PITTSBURGH -- One of the most exciting battles occurring at Pittsburgh Steelers training camp was the one between linemen Dylan Cook and Max Iheanachor to determine the starting right tackle.

That battle was quickly derailed when the Steelers' most recent first-round draft pick sustained an injury during the second week of camp. After a few days off, Iheanachor returned to the practice field at St. Vincent College wearing full pads and a helmet. He participated in a few reps of individual drills, but watched the rest of practice from the side.

Despite the positive sign, head coach Mike McCarthy cautioned that Iheanachor is not quite ready to make his team debut. Speaking to the media ahead of a recent practice, McCarthy clarified the injury situation. He's making progress, but he is likely out for the team's preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers.

"He's making progress," he said. "I do not see him playing Thursday night, but he's getting close."

The Latest on Iheanachor

Unlike the previous update from McCarthy, where he provided seemingly no new information, this one contained a bit more. He acknowledged that Iheanachor's participation in individual drills marks a progression in his rehab, but he's not cleared for full participation.

"He's just working his way back," McCarthy said. "Just like any return from injury, there's a strength component that we're trying to get over and there's some things we wanted to see with some pads and a helmet on."

It's not much, but it sheds a bit more light on the injury and where he's at. He's not 100%, but the stud tackle is very close. The fact that they were testing him in pads shows that he's closer to returning than not. The team has been cautious all training camp regarding injuries, and this seems to be another case of the organization protecting their players.

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Max Iheanachor (71) ` — Jun 9, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Max Iheanachor (71) participates in drills during Minicamp at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

When Will Iheanachor Debut?

The team is hoping that the youngster can get some preseason reps as soon as possible. The competition between Cook and Iheanachor was one of the toughest and closest battles happening at Latrobe. Iheanachor had the edge before his injury, but Cook has taken hold of the starting job and he's not keen on letting it go.

Iheanachor can re-take the lead, however, if he can get back on the field. The team will try to get him on the field for their next game, but his status remains unclear and uncertain.

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