What is going into the right tackle decision

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Max Iheanachor and Dylan Cook haven’t been told anything yet as to who will start at right tackle on Sunday in the season opener. Head coach Mike McCarthy said he hasn’t decided yet, but working through that decision.

“It’s been great to get him out there,” said Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio. “He just needs the reps, the mental reps, the communication. The checks and the audibles, you never can put a price on that and getting the real reps.”

Iheanachor missed a couple of weeks of practice due to a neck/shoulder injury and the only preseason game he played was the final one against Buffalo on August 27.

“Availability and accountability, that’s the most important part of this,” McCarthy said. “Being available every single day is huge, especially if you are a rookie.”

“There’s so much to love about Max just in the time he’s been out there. It’s impressive. Make no doubt about that, he can play, but he hasn’t played.”

McCarthy went on to say Cook has played, the entire training camp. It’s been the same offensive line with Cook at right tackle since the beginning of offseason workouts. The Steelers head coach said in professional football, especially in week one for a rookie, these things are factors.

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What is interesting about the competition is Cook has only started four NFL games, so Iheanachor isn’t competing against a long-time veteran.

“I’ve been pleased where (Iheanachor) has been going and certainly Dylan, who has been steady for us all training camp,” Angelichio said. “We just got to keep Max going and keep growing him and keep getting him comfortable. We are happy where he is at.”

Angelichio said they will continue to work both guys, as even if Cook doesn’t start, he will be the first tackle off the bench on either side.

There are only a couple more practices before the first game. Can the Steelers see enough to put the rookie out there?