The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a critical decision point regarding offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr., whose current contract is set to expire after the 2026 season.

Moore's Recovery and Contract Status

The team is also closely monitoring Moore’s recovery from a neck injury sustained late in the 2025 season. While the Steelers are hopeful for his return before the next season begins, a definitive recovery timeline remains unclear.

Drafting for the Future

To prepare for potential scenarios, the Steelers drafted Max Iheanachor, a first-round tackle from Arizona State, during the recent NFL Draft. This selection is widely seen as a move to secure a potential long-term replacement for Moore.

Competition for Starting Role

Currently, Dylan Cook and Iheanachor are expected to compete for a starting position on the offensive line. The versatility of Troy Fautanu adds further flexibility, allowing the Steelers to consider him at either tackle spot.

Exploring Trade Options

The Steelers are considering exploring trade options for Moore, despite his recent injury. At 24 years old and a former first-round pick, he still holds potential value for other teams in the league.

Potential Return on Investment

Even a modest return, such as a Day 3 draft pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, would be considered a positive outcome, given the team has already drafted a potential replacement. The primary goal is to gain some compensation for a player whose long-term future with the team is uncertain.

Offensive Line Depth

The Steelers are confident in their offensive line depth, with Spencer Anderson, a player capable of playing all five positions, also under consideration for an extension. This depth allows the team to explore trade options for Moore without compromising the stability of the offensive line.