New Steelers OT Max Iheanachor’s talent is off the charts, but is experience a concern?

TL;DR

The Steelers selected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor with the 21st overall pick. Despite his impressive athleticism and potential, concerns about his experience and consistency in pass protection remain.

Key points

Steelers selected Max Iheanachor with the 21st overall pick
Iheanachor has a strong athletic background and impressive stats
Concerns about his consistency in pass protection and experience

Mentioned in this story

Arizona State

Max IheanachorPittsburgh Steelers

Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils offensive lineman Max Iheanachor (58) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Steelers snagged Max Iheanachor, the tackle out of Arizona State, with the 21st overall pick. Here’s what you need to know. **Stats & Accolades**

**2021-2022:** JUCO
**2023:** (6 games played, 5 starts), 4 starts at right tackle, 1 start at left tackle
**2024:** (14 games played, 14 starts), All starts at right tackle
**2025:** (12 games played, 12 starts), All starters at right tackle **What the Steelers are getting:** Iheanachor is one of this year’s raw-but-traitsy offensive tackle prospects that the right team will have to have a plan for to make sure he hits the ground running at the next level. His story is impressive, going from a JUCO player to a potential first-round pick who didn’t start playing football until he was a teenager. Iheanachor is a quality athlete with excellent lateral movement skills who should be a capable blocker in any run scheme. He’s got some growing to do as far as his consistency goes in pass protection, but the film he put together against top competition (vs. Texas Tech, Senior Bowl) shows just how close he actually is to realizing his potential. **Strengths**
Basketball background shows up in his footwork
One of the biggest risers this draft season with notable Senior Bowl performance
Rose to the occasion against Texas Tech’s excellent pass rush duo
Athleticism to be scheme-independent as a run blocker **Weakness**

Q&A

What are Max Iheanachor's strengths as an offensive tackle?

Max Iheanachor's strengths include excellent lateral movement skills, a strong basketball background that enhances his footwork, and the ability to be a capable run blocker.

How did Max Iheanachor perform in college football?

Iheanachor played 12 games in 2025, starting all of them at right tackle, and previously had a notable performance at the Senior Bowl against top competition.

What concerns exist regarding Max Iheanachor's experience?

Concerns about Iheanachor's experience include his rawness in recognizing defensive stunts and his tendency to struggle with consistency in pass protection.