The Steelers have left virtuallyno position on the roster untouched this offseason, and the offensive tackle group is no exception. Having experienced yet another one-and-done postseason exit, they are trying just about anything to achieve more favorable results. With bold swings via trade, shrewd free-agent signings, and a clear draft priority, the 2026 Steelers are taking shape.
With training camp fast approaching, it’s time to go over the Steelers’ roster to see where we are and how we got here in the first place. This has been an offseason arguably unlike any other for the organization, featuring major turnover. They’ve gone through so much change, it feels necessary at this time to take stock before we move on.
Position: Offensive Tackle
Total Positional Figure: 7
Additions: 1
Deletions: 0
Players Retained:
Troy Fautanu: Now moved from the right side, Troy Fautanu is poised to be the Steelers’ left tackle of the future. They previously believed that it would be Broderick Jones, but plans change. Jones’ future is unclear, but Fautanu’s appears to be bright. Maybe even “future Pro Bowler” bright, but time will tell.
Dylan Cook: After marinating on the Steelers’ practice squad, Dylan Cook could be a starting tackle this season. At least, a temporary starter, for as long as he can hold off a rookie first-round pick. Right now, he’s in the driver’s seat, but Broderick Jones, if healthy, could re-enter the equation.
Broderick Jones: The first of three offensive tackles the Steelers drafted in the first round in a span of four years, Broderick Jones is at a critical point in his career. Recovering from a major injury, he was already facing what should have been a pivotal season. While he has played well enough, he has never played at a franchise level. Right now, though, all he can worry about is recovering and returning to football shape. Without that, there isn’t even a conversation.
Doug Nester: At this point, Nester is a practice squad veteran. I’m inclined to say that’s as far as he’ll go, but there are always counterexamples. The Steelers have a prime one at offensive tackle right now in Dylan Cook. He spent most of the last two years on the practice squad and now could be a starter. Sometimes, all you need is an opportunity.
Jack Driscoll: Driscoll has some pedigree and even some experience, including 18 career starts. If Broderick Jones can’t play this year, he could be a potential option for the Steelers as a fourth tackle.
Lorenzo Thompson: The Steelers signed Thompson before they even hired Mike McCarthy, so their offensive tackle roster has been largely set since he arrived. A 2024 college free agent, he has yet to play a snap in the NFL.
Players Added:
Max Iheanachor: Only the Steelers’ second addition at offensive tackle this offseason, but a big one. A first-round pick, Iheanachor will be in the running to start at right tackle. Obviously, they drafted him to start, but they don’t need to force him before he’s ready. Of course, the sooner he is ready, the better.
Players Lost: N/A
Notes and Camp Outlook:
Assuming the move is permanent, we know Troy Fautanu will be the Steelers’ left tackle. We don’t know who will play on the other side, or what that competition will even look like. For now, it’s shaping up to be Dylan Cook trying to hold off rookie first-round pick Max Iheanachor. If Iheanachor looks like he’s ready, will they favor the talented rookie or the more experienced veteran?
And then there is the Broderick Jones factor, who was supposed to be the Steelers’ next great tackle. Now in his fourth season, he is battling back from a severe neck injury. While he’s doing some work, he is not cleared for contact and is not in football shape. Before he can even compete to regain a starting job, he needs to get his body right.
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