Steelers draft OT Iheanachor as LT Jones faces neck injury setback

Draft bolsters line amid Jones' camp uncertainty.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Apr 241 min read

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Draft bolsters line amid Jones' camp uncertainty. Video

What happened: Pittsburgh Steelers selected Arizona State OT Max Iheanachor in the 2026 NFL Draft. The pick addresses depth concerns with starting LT Broderick Jones dealing with a setback from his 2025 neck injury. Jones is set for evaluation ahead of training camp.

Why it matters: Jones has been a cornerstone at left tackle since 2023, anchoring protection for Steelers' QB. A prolonged absence could expose vulnerabilities in the run game and pass protection, critical for playoff aspirations. This adds insurance but tests depth early in rebuild.

By the numbers: Jones injury history: Neck (2025, missed 4 games); Steelers 2025 record: 9-8 (missed playoffs). Draft: Iheanachor, Rd 3 Pick 85.

What to watch: Monitor Jones' evaluation results next week. Watch Iheanachor's rookie camp reps for LT competition.

Sources

@AdamSchefter Apr 23, 10:12 PM ET

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NFLInjuryPittsburgh SteelersMax IheanachorBroderick Jones

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Steelers draft OT Iheanachor as LT Jones faces neck injury setback

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