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Steelers Draft Max Iheanachor No. 21 to Plug Left Guard Gap

4/26/2026

43 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Steelers Draft Iheanachor

The Steelers drafted Max Iheanachor at No. 21 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Coach James Campen praised Iheanachor’s athleticism and zero-sack college season.
The pick helped fill a left-side gap after Isaac Seumalo left in free agency and Broderick Jones’s neck-surgery recovery.
Pittsburgh also selected Iowa lineman Gennings Dunker at No. 96 and has four additional picks at 53, 76, 85 and 99.

Summary

Steelers Call Lemon

The Steelers called USC receiver Makai Lemon before their turn on the clock.
Jake Rosenberg said clubs not on the clock may discuss non-financial matters with draft-eligible players, a practice a source confirmed complies with NFL protocol.
NFL Network aired video of Lemon speaking with the Steelers while the Eagles tried to reach him, prompting league officials to deem the incident a minor issue despite possible embarrassment for the Steelers.

Summary

Iheanachor Early Play

Steelers coach and analysts say Max Iheanachor’s confidence and mental toughness offset his limited experience.
Pennsylvania fans are urged to celebrate his confidence and allow time for development.
Analysts suggest his strong mentality could earn early playing time, possibly as a Week 1 starter.
Commentators warn patience, recommending evaluation over his first season rather than immediate results.

Summary

Iheanachor Returns

He wants to return to Nigeria to create opportunities for athletes.
He got an NFL-logo tattoo after his Arizona State Pro Day, a reminder of his dream.
He thanked Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy, saying he is “in debt” for the chance.
He called his journey blessed, said he must keep working while trusting God’s plan, and noted his AAU basketball coach urged him to try football.

History

Historical Context

In 1969 Chuck Noll selected defensive tackle “Mean” Joe Greene with the fourth overall pick, a move that anchored the Steel Curtain and helped Pittsburgh win four Super Bowls between 1974 and 1979, earning Greene 13 Pro Bowl appearances. Echoing that transformation, the Steelers chose Nigerian lineman Max Iheanachor at No. 21 in the 2026 draft to bolster the left side.

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Steelers Draft Iheanachor

The Steelers drafted Max Iheanachor at No. 21 in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Coach James Campen praised Iheanachor’s athleticism and zero-sack college season.
The pick helped fill a left-side gap after Isaac Seumalo left in free agency and Broderick Jones’s neck-surgery recovery.
Pittsburgh also selected Iowa lineman Gennings Dunker at No. 96 and has four additional picks at 53, 76, 85 and 99.

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