Offensive linemen like Pittsburgh Steelers first-round pick Max Iheanachor can’t truly show off their skill set until the pads come on in August. Still, he can put his energy and focus to good use to hit the ground running once drills fully become live. Speaking to reporters Wednesday following a minicamp practice, Iheanachor outlined his approach to spring work.
“Just being myself. Playing hard. Trying to finish. Definitely that part,” he told reporters via The Trib’s Chris Adamski.
Pittsburgh drafted Iheanachor, in part, for his power and physicality. Head coach Mike McCarthy noted the power in Iheanachor’s hands and his ability to stick and drive in the running game. He also impressed in marquee matchups, like his 2025 showing against Texas Tech linebacker and first-round pick David Bailey.
Though Iheanachor can’t pancake players into the ground, his ability to drive his feet and finish can still be replicated in drills. Effort that won’t go unnoticed and is critical to any offensive lineman’s success.
Until the offense can hit back, Iheanchor’s aim is on mastering the details.
“My technique, footwork. Those two,” he said. “Pad level, technique, footwork. We can’t really hit but [can still] focus on fast footwork, hand placement, stuff like that.”
Learning from veteran offensive line coach James Campen and his assistant, former All-Pro Jahri Evans, will only help. Two quality hires to continue molding a young group with new faces and rising pieces like Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, and Zach Frazier.
Though the offensive line isn’t fully settled, Iheanachor is likely competing for the starting right tackle job with Dylan Cook. Iheanachor is already understanding spring work isn’t about winning a job but embracing the process to get there. The more buttoned up he is with his technique, the more his physical talent will shine through. And the quicker he’ll find himself on the field in meaningful action.
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