On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers took the field for their first official practice of the 2026 training camp. The opening session produced plenty of storylines, from notable sound bites and roster updates to on-field observations. Among the biggest areas of focus was one of the team's most anticipated position groups: the offensive line.
Fans got their first look at the initial first-team unit, the status of Broderick Jones, and the competitive energy on display. Head coach Mike McCarthy also offered insight into how the Steelers plan to approach the offensive line throughout camp, while offensive line coach James Campen was active throughout drills, working closely with his group. One day of training camp won't determine the final lineup, but McCarthy and his staff are clearly committed to developing an offensive line capable of driving the offense forward.
Steelers' first group isn't set in stone, but the initial opportunities are clear
According to reports, the first-team offensive line featured Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick, Zach Frazier, Spencer Anderson, and Dylan Cook. However, don't expect that group to remain intact. The right guard and right tackle jobs are still up for grabs. With Jones now cleared for action, he could compete for either tackle spot, giving Fautanu the flexibility to move if needed.
The more likely scenario, however, is that the Steelers keep Fautanu at left tackle, where he is clearly their best option. That shifts the competition to right tackle, where Jones and Cook appear to be the primary contenders. Although Cook received the first opportunity, don't expect Jones to surrender the competition easily. In fact, don't expect the starting five to settle until the preseason begins. McCarthy has already made it clear that the coaching staff plans to move players around.
The offensive line will continue to shuffle
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When McCarthy spoke to the media before practice, he made it clear that the first unit wouldn't necessarily be the final one. Alan Saunders of Steelers Now reported:
"McCarthy said that when it comes to the OL, not to focus on the first five out there and the plan is to mix and match units, guys playing together and positions, especially early in camp."
Expect the offensive line to rotate throughout training camp, with players moving between the first, second, and third units. Jones' return to full participation only adds another layer to what has suddenly become a deep offensive tackle group. Ultimately, the biggest evaluations will come during the preseason, where game action provides the clearest measure of offensive line play.
It's still early in training camp, and nothing is set in stone after the first practice. If anything, it's encouraging to see the coaching staff willing to explore every possible combination before settling on its best five.
