Iheanachor's Return to Practice
The Pittsburgh Steelers received a welcome update on Monday, August 24, when head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters that first-round pick Max Iheanachor would return to practice. Iheanachor has been limited to individual drills since early August because of an upper-body injury, and he missed the first two preseason games. His return, as reported by Heavy., gives him a chance to make his team debut on Thursday, August 27, against the Buffalo Bills. With less than three weeks before the season opener on September 13 against the Atlanta Falcons, Iheanachor is under pressure to prepare quickly.
A Timeline of the Injury
Iheanachor's injury first occurred two weeks ago, according to a detailed account from Mechanicsburg Patriot News. He left practice and missed the next two days; McCarthy said at the time that Iheanachor was 'okay.' During a team period, Iheanachor came off to the side, had his helmet removed, and walked up the hill to the facility for evaluation, not returning that day. The same source notes that there has been no concrete injury update on his status, and the offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio, quoted by both Sports Illustrated and Mechanicsburg Patriot, has said the team is hopeful he can return but uncertain about a full practice timeline.
Angelichio, speaking to Sports Illustrated, expressed optimism: "Sure, he's been working hard, I know, with his rehab, and that's something that we'll evaluate each day and see where he's at, but certainly hopeful to get him back." That hopeful outlook was echoed by the offensive coordinator again in the Mechanicsburg Patriot report, but the lack of a specific recovery timeline leaves room for uncertainty.
Witnessing His Promise Pre-Injury
Before his injury, Iheanachor had impressed during training camp. Mechanicsburg Patriot described practice moments where Iheanachor's footwork stood out, particularly when he mirrored Alex Highsmith and stonewalled the rusher. His performance wasn't flawless: he allowed T.J. Watt to stunt up a bull rush through him, a welcome-to-the-NFL moment. But he followed that by stopping second-year pass rusher Jack Sawyer twice in a row. These flashes contributed to the media's characterization of him as a promising rookie, one who could stabilize an offensive line that has raised concerns.
A Dire Right Tackle Problem
According to Sports Illustrated, after two preseason games, the right tackle position is not considered good enough. Against the Packers, Dylan Cook raised initial concerns, but against the New York Jets, he seemed to worsen, struggling with strength and getting beat off the ball on nearly every rep. Meanwhile, Broderick Jones has not impressed since returning from a neck injury, having lost weight and appearing weaker than he was a year ago. With both options faltering, Iheanachor, who looked good in his limited camp appearances, becomes a potential must-start if he can return before Week 1.
The Race to Start
At this point, Mechanicsburg Patriot reports that it appears more likely either Broderick Jones or Dylan Cook will start at right tackle. Iheanachor's absence has meant he could be losing ground in the starting spot, even though his high upside makes him an attractive player. Both Sports Illustrated and Mechanicsburg note that the team's biggest need is the right way to solve the right tackle problem, and the return of the Iheanachor is seen as a sign of hope.
A Boosting Double Return
Just for the defense's sake, the Steelers are also getting veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey activated off the physically unable to perform list, as head coach Mike McCarthy announced ahead of the Bills game. Ramsey's return to practice could provide a major boost for the defense, though the exact timeline for his game return is unclear. In his absence, Doneiko Slaughter, a second-year undrafted free agent, had been receiving significant first-team snaps. Ramsey, a Super Bowl winner and multiple-time All-Pro, adds substantial leadership and skill, which is arguably a big reason the defense is hopeful for the regular season.