The Steelers may finally get a first look at Max Iheanachor in game action on Thursday, and the rookie right tackle says that’s the plan.
Iheanachor told reporters on Monday that Pittsburgh is preparing for him to play against the Buffalo Bills, marking a possible preseason debut after he sat out the team’s first two exhibition games. He missed time after an injury in training camp on August 6, an issue believed to have affected his upper body. Monday was his first practice since the setback.
“I wanted to play since the first preseason [game], but obviously missing practices and stuff,” Iheanachor said, per ESPN reporter Brooke Pryor. “Couldn’t get out there with the guys. So I mean, that’s the plan to play this last one.”
Pittsburgh took Iheanachor with the 21st pick in the draft, selecting him out of Arizona State and keeping him close to home, just feet away from Acrisure Stadium, with the idea of strengthening the offensive line. That group has not found much rhythm this preseason, with cohesion still a work in progress.
At right tackle, Dylan Cook and Broderick Jones have shared the load, though Cook has been the one mainly working with the first team. Iheanachor is currently listed as Cook’s backup on the depth chart. The Steelers are also only planning to develop Iheanachor on the right side after moving Troy Fautanu to the left.
Pittsburgh’s final preseason game comes Thursday, August 27, and it will also be its only road trip of the exhibition slate, a visit to the Bills at the new Highmark Stadium.
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