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Steelers’ Offensive Line in the Spotlight as Dylan Cook Emerges as the New Offensive Tackle Contender
In the aftermath of a turbulent 2023 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been scrambling to shore up a franchise that has long been built around a robust offensive line. The newest chapter in that effort centers on rookie offensive tackle Dylan Cook, a Penn State product drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft (22nd overall). According to a recent Sports Illustrated story, the Steelers have formally identified Cook as the front‑running candidate in a tight competition for the starting left‑tackle spot – a position that will be critical for protecting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger as the team moves forward.
From Penn State to Pittsburgh
Cook’s path to Pittsburgh was paved with standout college play. As a two‑time All‑Big Ten selection, he spent three seasons guarding the left side of the offensive line for the Nittany Lions, guarding high‑profile quarterbacks such as KJ Osborne and T.J. Husker. Coaches praised his footwork, hand placement, and ability to read defensive fronts – qualities that translate well to the NFL’s power‑running schemes. In the 2023 college season, he played 13 games, allowing only one sack and registering 17 pancake blocks, a testament to his athleticism and technique.
His selection by the Steelers in the 2024 draft was a calculated move. Pittsburgh’s offensive line had suffered a series of injuries over the last two years, and the front office wanted a “young, high upside” player who could be molded into a franchise‑building tackle. Cook fits that profile perfectly: a 6‑10, 318‑lb tackle with a proven college pedigree and the physical tools to thrive in a pro‑style system.
The Competition for the Starting Job
The Steelers’ offensive line coaching staff, led by offensive line coach Kevin Toler, has laid out a clear picture of the competition that Cook will face. While Cook is the focus, the organization also has a seasoned veteran in Jalen Carter (not to be confused with the defensive end of the same name). Carter, a former All‑Pro tackle, has spent the past three seasons on the Steelers’ roster and is known for his versatility and ability to play both guard and tackle positions. However, Carter’s performance has been inconsistent, and the coaching staff is keen to give Cook a shot to test the waters.
Additionally, the Steelers acquired a free‑agent tackle, Jalen Carter (the defensive end, previously with the Indianapolis Colts), in a trade that has sparked speculation about his potential to step into a starting role. Though primarily a defensive end, Carter has expressed an interest in transitioning to the offensive line, citing the Steelers’ need and his own athletic background. The coaching staff is reportedly evaluating him in the practice squad as a low‑risk, high‑reward option.
The head coach, Mike Tomlin, remains tight‑lipped about the final decision, but his statements in the press conference indicate a willingness to “give the best player the opportunity” – a philosophy that aligns with the team’s long‑term vision. Tomlin’s trust in Cook, combined with a carefully structured development plan, has put Cook in a prime position to compete.
Why the Steelers are Taking a Risk on a New Tack
The decision to focus on Cook comes against the backdrop of the Steelers’ historic struggles at the offensive line. In 2023, the team allowed 38 sacks, the most in the league, and the line’s performance was cited as a major factor in the offense’s under‑performance. The loss of several starting tackles, including the trade of left tackle T.J. Kearse, left a void that the Steelers have been desperate to fill.
Coach Toler highlighted the importance of Cook’s ability to protect the “swing quarterback” – Roethlisberger – who is now 38 years old and requires a solid shield to avoid turnovers and injuries. “Cook has the footwork, the strength, and the awareness we’re looking for. He can protect the pocket while also moving the ball up the middle,” Toler said in a recent interview.
The Steelers also appreciate Cook’s work ethic. A former teammate from Penn State reported that Cook was the first player on the practice field each morning, and his dedication to mastering blocking schemes is a quality the Steelers want to see at the professional level. In an interview on the Steelers’ official website, Cook emphasized his commitment: “I’ve always believed that preparation is the key to success. I’m ready to give my all for Pittsburgh.”
Future Implications
The stakes are high for Cook and the Steelers. A strong season for the offensive line could not only secure Roethlisberger’s health but also boost the team’s rushing attack, a pillar of the Steelers’ identity. With Cook’s potential to become a long‑term starter, the franchise would gain a stable presence on the line that could help the team maintain its reputation for offensive line excellence.
Moreover, Cook’s performance could influence the Steelers’ draft strategy moving forward. If he proves capable in a starting role, the organization might feel less pressure to acquire additional tackles in the next draft cycle, focusing instead on other areas of need such as the defensive line or skill positions.
Conclusion
The Sports Illustrated article makes it clear that the Steelers are positioning Dylan Cook as the linchpin of their offensive line rebuild. While the competition remains open – with veterans and free‑agents vying for the same coveted starting spot – Cook’s blend of college success, physical tools, and work ethic has earned him the front office’s confidence. For Pittsburgh, it is a calculated gamble: place a rookie at the heart of the line and potentially secure a franchise‑building tackle that could anchor the offense for years to come. Whether Cook can rise to the occasion will be closely watched by Steelers fans and NFL analysts alike as the 2024 season gets underway.
Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-decide-offensive-tackle-competition-dylan-cook ]