ESPN's Brooke Pryor has critiqued the Pittsburgh Steelers' selection of offensive tackle Max Iheanachor at No. 21 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, questioning if the developmental prospect addresses urgent offensive line needs amid Broderick Jones' neck surgery recovery and declined fifth-year option.
Following their first-round selection of Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor—previously detailed in draft coverage—the Steelers invested in a high-upside player still refining his skills. Pryor highlighted the risks in her post-draft analysis: 'Starting with first-round pick Max Iheanachor—a tackle who began playing football only five years ago—the Steelers seemed to target developmental prospects with high upside but also plenty of unknowns.' She contrasted the luxury of developing quarterbacks with the immediate need at tackle if Jones, who underwent neck surgery last season, cannot contribute in 2026 after the team declined his fifth-year option. Dylan Cook stepped up last year, but Pittsburgh prioritized long-term potential. Iheanachor's Arizona State coach Saga Tuitele defended him, stressing his high ceiling beyond the 'developmental' label. While pick 21 offers value for a potential decade-long starter, Pryor suggested trading up might have secured a short-term solution. Early growing pains are expected, but time will reveal if Iheanachor becomes a cornerstone.
