Steelers sign first-round OT Max Iheanachor to massive rookie deal
Max Iheanachor, Pittsburgh’s surprise first-round pick, is officially locked in after signing his fully guaranteed rookie contract.
The player who was not on many draftniks' radars for the Pittsburgh Steelers has inked a massive deal. Max Iheanachor, the No. 21 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, signed his rookie contract with Pittsburgh on May 15.
The deal is a four-year, fully guaranteed $20. 69 million contract that includes an $11. 598 million signing bonus.
#Steelers have agreed to terms with first-round pick Max Iheanchor on fully guaranteed four-year, $20. 692 million contract with fifth-year club option, per league source that includes $11. 598 million signing bonus @KPRC2 — Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) May 15, 2026 That is a major investment for a player who was not widely viewed as a first-round lock entering the draft cycle.
But the Steelers saw something they liked in the Arizona State offensive tackle, and now Iheanachor gets every chance to prove he can become a long-term piece up front. At 6-foot-6 and 321 pounds, Iheanachor brings the kind of size Pittsburgh typically values on the offensive line. His selection also showed how serious the Steelers were about continuing to build around the trenches, especially as they reshape the offense under Mike McCarthy.