Pittsburgh Steelers fans hoping to see their shiny new 21st overall draft pick, Max Iheanachor, hit the field Week 1 are gonna have to slam on the brakes hard. Dylan Cook, rocking No. 60, looks like he’s absolutely locked in to start at right tackle for the Steelers’ season opener against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
Cook Steals The Show While The Rookie Bides His Time
Look, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy played it coy during his Monday press conference, not officially naming a starter, but come on, we’re all seeing the writing on the wall. McCarthy flat out said Cook has been absolutely hogging “most of the reps” at right tackle, not just this week, but “all summer long.” That’s a ton of trust from the coaching staff. And when he got asked about that offensive line gelling together, McCarthy didn’t hold back, adding, “We feel really good about Dylan.” That’s a serious, serious vote of confidence right before the season kicks off, basically telling you everything you need to know about who they trust on that edge.
For Iheanachor? Man, it’s a bummer, but the rookie tackle’s camp injury sounds like it’s the real roadblock here. McCarthy did say he’s been “impressed” with the kid “when he has been healthy enough to play,” and even threw in, “Make no mistake about it, he can play.” High praise, sure. But after only playing in one measly preseason game, tossing a rookie into the starting lineup for Week 1 against live bullets? That’s a huge, huge ask. It makes total sense why they’re letting him ease in and fully recover. No need to rush greatness, right?
McCarthy Bets Big On A Brand-New Offensive Line
So, it won’t just be Cook holding down right tackle. The Steelers’ offensive line is rolling out another new starter at right guard with Spencer Anderson. That’s two fresh faces trying to build cohesion in what, like, a minute? McCarthy himself admitted he saw an “up-and-down performance” from the unit in preseason. Yikes. But he’s clearly trusting this new group to pull it together when it matters most. That’s a big deal for any team, but especially for a unit like the offensive line. They’re the literal engine of any offense, setting the tone for every single snap. With fresh blood stepping in, Week 1 isn’t just about winning, it’s about seeing if this unit can actually gel and protect their guy when the lights are brightest. The stakes couldn’t be higher for these new guys right out of the gate.
Sunday’s opener against the Falcons isn’t just another game on the schedule, it’s the first real, live-action test for this reshuffled offensive line. All eyes will absolutely be on Cook and Anderson to see if McCarthy’s gamble and faith pay off. Can they protect the quarterback? Can they open up some gaping holes for the run game? We’re gonna find out when that final whistle blows, and honestly, I can’t wait to see it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Behind the Steel Curtain.
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