Former NFL offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz has named Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Troy Fautanu as a potential breakout player for the 2026 season. The prediction comes after Fautanu's solid performance at right tackle last year and amid a positional shift due to injury.
Schwartz made the comments during an episode of The GM Shuffle. He said Fautanu is expected to return to his natural left tackle position this season.
Fautanu allowed just two sacks and four hits in 2025 while playing right tackle, according to Pro Football Focus. He is moving to the left side following an injury to Broderick Jones.
Former Carolina Panthers general manager Marty Hurney also praised Fautanu, stating he loved him as a player and that the left tackle move could lead to a breakout. The Steelers drafted Max Iheanchor in the first round to handle right tackle duties.
The team is counting on Fautanu to protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers' blindside. Some concerns were raised about Fautanu's size and whether guard might suit him better.
