Steelers head coach McCarthy signals Dylan Cook will start at right tackle
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 1:20 AM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach McCarthy indicated that rookie Max Iheanachor is unlikely to start the team's Week 1 game. During media availability on September 7, 2026, McCarthy cited time missed due to injury as the primary factor in the decision. While acknowledging that Iheanachor is an impressive player when available, the coach emphasized that consistent availability and accountability are essential for a rookie entering a starting role. Meanwhile, Dylan Cook has been consistently taking the majority of first-team repetitions at right tackle during practice. Although the team has not made a formal declaration regarding the starter, McCarthy’s comments suggest the coaching staff favors the continuity provided by Cook. The Steelers continue to navigate offensive line preparations ahead of the regular season opener.
- •Mike McCarthy stated that Max Iheanachor faces a difficult path to starting due to injury-related absences.
- •Dylan Cook has been receiving the majority of first-team reps at right tackle.
- •McCarthy emphasized the importance of availability and practice time for rookie players.
- •No definitive starter has been named for the right tackle position heading into Week 1.
- 1:20 AMYahoo Sports — Steelers’ Top Rookie Faces Shrinking Chance to Start Season Opener
- 10:38 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers head coach says quiet part out loud about previously injured rookie
"Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy cast serious doubt on first-round pick Max Iheanachor starting in Week 1. The post Steelers’ Top Rookie Faces Shrinking Chance to Start Season Opener appeared first on HEAVY.
"The Steelers likely won't be giving one rookie the starting nod in Week 1, as Mike McCarthy said the quiet part out loud about a previous injury.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 8, 2026, 1:20 AMSteelers’ Top Rookie Faces Shrinking Chance to Start Season Opener
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy cast serious doubt on first-round pick Max Iheanachor starting in Week 1. The post Steelers’ Top Rookie Faces Shrinking Chance to Start Season Opener appeared first on HEAVY.
- Yahoo SportsSep 7, 2026, 10:38 PMSteelers head coach says quiet part out loud about previously injured rookie
The Steelers likely won't be giving one rookie the starting nod in Week 1, as Mike McCarthy said the quiet part out loud about a previous injury.
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