The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round but plan no immediate push into the starting lineup. Former Steelers lineman Trai Essex believes the rookie has strong potential if he masters the mental side of the game.
Essex made the comments on his Snap Count podcast this week. He described Iheanachor as a star in the making and said the player is more polished than Broderick Jones was at the same stage.
Essex noted that the right tackle job will likely come down to a competition between Iheanachor and Dylan Cook. He said success will depend on how quickly the rookie learns the playbook, adjustments, audibles, and cadence from quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
The Steelers have a history of giving first-round tackles time to develop, as seen with Jones and Troy Fautanu. Iheanachor, who has played football for only five years, will get further evaluation during training camp and the preseason.
