PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting support for their offensive line with their first-round draft pick.
As announced by Pro Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, the Steelers selected Max Iheanachor, an offensive tackle from Arizona State University, with the No. 21 pick at the 2026 NFL Draft in their backyard.
Iheanachor is 6 feet, 6 inches tall and started 12 games for the Sun Devils at right tackle in 2025. He was also named second-team All-Big 12 Conference in 2025.
Channel 11’s Jenna Harner also spoke with Iheanachor on a conference call and shared what it was like to get the life-changing phone call from the Steelers.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sure,” he said. “I’m still really emotional right now... Just really grateful for the opportunity and ready to come in and work.”
The Nigerian-born athlete said he didn’t initially plan on playing football -- but the former soccer goalie and basketball player was encouraged to give the sport a try. He’s only been playing football since 2021.
Despite having less experience than some other first-round draft picks, broadcasters said Iheanachor continuously elevated his game throughout the draft process and proved himself at the Senior Bowl.
Even though Iheanachor was a suprising pick, Head Coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan were obviously excited to select the offensive lineman.
Khan called Iheanachor “a Steeler,” and McCarthy highlighted how much they love the positional flexibility the lineman has in his game.
Our partners at Steelers Now call Iheanachor “one of the most intriguing, ascending prospects in the entire draft."
Coming into the NFL Draft, the Steelers had 12 picks — the most out of all 32 teams. As long as there are no trades, the Steelers will pick four more players on Friday and add another seven on Saturday.
The reaction from fans was mixed.
Click here for what they were saying about the pick.
This is a developing story that will be updated.
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