Steelers Have a Massive Problem They Need to Fix

PITTSBURGH -- The left side of the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line found their way in the second preseason game. Left tackle Troy Fautanu was already back to his All-Pro form, Mason McCormick has transitioned well to the left guard position, and Zach Frazier is, well, Zach Frazier.

The right side, however, looked even worse than they did in the preseason opener. Dylan Cook, the starting right tackle, has lost rep after rep in two appearances. Spencer Anderson has been up-and-down in his snaps, but neither has assured head coach Mike McCarthy that they can anchor the strong side of the offensive line. McCarthy rotated in Brock Hoffman and Broderick Jones during the first half, showing that he hasn't quite made up his mind when it comes to that tandem.

It's fair that McCarthy hasn't made up his mind. How could he? The options are grim right now, regardless of if you're discussing the starter or going further down the depth chart. With just one game separating this team from the regular season, the Steelers have a growing and concerning problem at right tackle.

Can Steelers Rely on Max Iheanachor?

It might be a bit dramatic, seeing as he hasn't played a game in the NFL yet, but the Steelers' final hope is first-round rookie Max Iheanachor. The 21st overall pick in the 2026 draft had the starting RT job nearly stolen from Cook, but an injury suffered early in training camp derailed his early ascension.

But now, the Steelers are being forced to rely on the inexperienced Iheanachor as the starter on the offensive line opposite Fautanu.

That's a tall order for Iheanachor. Not because he doesn't have what it takes, but because the pressure is quickly turning all the way up in Pittsburgh. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and company want to make a legitimate run for the Lombardi Trophy. In order to get there, they need to solve this right tackle issue. Iheanachor is currently their best, and perhaps only, remaining in-house option.

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

Is a Trade On the Table?

With the Steelers and general manager Omar Khan, the trade market can never be discounted. They've taken multiple big swings via trade over the past few seasons, and with the team all-in for the 2026 campaign, it might make sense to dial the phones once again.

The only problem is that the Steelers might not have a willing trade partner right now. Teams are still deciding on their final 53-man rosters ahead of the regular season, and some teams might not be willing to part with anyone while they figure things out. By the time they are, who knows what type of return they will seek for a starting-caliber tackle.

For the Steelers, the trade market is a dangerous route to pursue.

Worst-Case Scenario: Steelers Turn to Free Agency

There is one last resort the Steelers could pivot to, but admittedly, it doesn't inspire confidence or represent an obvious upgrade. A few free agents are still available on the open market, and could be a short-term solution while Iheanachor makes his way back to 100%.

One player is former Cincinnati Bengals first-round pick, Jonah Williams. He was a solid tackle in Cincinnati before injuries derailed his past two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. The last thing the Steelers need is another quasi-healthy right tackle in the mix, but if he had a clean bill of health, he brings 74 games of starting experience to a needy position.

Another player with starting experience who could be had for cheap is former Cleveland Browns lineman Jack Conklin. With 114 starts over his NFL career with the Browns and Tennessee Titans, he would be a true veteran mentor for Iheanachor and Fautanu. Injuries are also a concern for Conklin, but if the Steelers are desperate enough, he might be worth a shot.

Make sure to bookmark Steelers On SI, and find our podcast All Steelers Talk on YouTube or anywhere you listen!

Add us as a preferred source on Google