The Pittsburgh Steelers continue their annual rookie minicamp this weekend, pushing to see which young players deserve a spot on their roster. Steelers' 119th overall draft pick, Mason McCormick out of South Dakota State, is coming to Pittsburgh looking to help them the best way he can. As many new players arrive at a new organization, McCormick wants to earn his playing time and be a part of a championship culture. That will come with a tall task, however, which is continuing the legacy of number 66 in Pittsburgh.
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Steelers' fourth-round draft pick, Mason McCormick at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
Over the past 30 years, the Steelers have had two top tier offensive guards play in Pittsburgh. Alan Faneca, who was drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft, gave Pittsburgh a historic career which led him into the Hall of Fame. As a Pro Bowler for nine straight years and a leader of the Steelers that claimed Super Bowl XL, Faneca would go down as one of the greatest Steelers to ever play the guard position.
Steelers' former guard David DeCastro is another guy who will always be remembered as one of Pittsburgh's best. During his nine year career with the team, DeCastro was selected to six straight Pro Bowls to finish his tenure. As a part of the franchise's 2010s powerhouse offense, DeCastro played a huge role and was consistently on the field. Unfortunately, his time ran short after holding his third ankle surgery which led to his retirement.
Both Faneca and DeCastro famously wore number 66, which will be McCormick's new number for is rookie season in Pittsburgh. As a guard wearing number 66 in the Steel City, there will be some expectations to live up to, but that will come with an amount of pressure. McCormick was questioned about the shoes he is expected to fill and how he will respond at the Steelers' rookie minicamp via Steelers.com.
"I have heard a little bit about it. I've heard I've got some big shoes to fill. That's super exciting."
McCormick has a great opportunity to be the future at guard for the Steelers, with the possibility of either James Daniels or Isaac Seumalo not remaining in Pittsburgh much longer after the 2024 season. McCormick also mentioned at camp that he is versatile and is able to play center if he is needed to, which could present other opportunities in the future.
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Pittsburgh Steelers offensive guard, James Daniels (78) is entering the last year of his contract in the Steel City.
Steelers Guard Loves To Run Block
After reflecting on the shoes he will have to be filling as number 66, McCormick was asked if he prefers pass blocking or run blocking. The big man immediately answered with run blocking without any hesitation.
"Run blocking. I'm an o-lineman, of course. I like being able to finish and run through blocks, I think it's fun clicking something off for a running back."
That mentality is exactly what the Steelers will need this season, as they plan to run the ball effectively more than ever before. The Steelers rushing attack has struggled the past couple of seasons, considering the type of talent they have in the backfield. After the firing of Matt Canada and the hiring of Arthur Smith, Pittsburgh should be in much better hands when it comes to play-calling and strategy.
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Former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith stands on the sideline during a professional football game.
The Steelers nailed the 2024 NFL Draft by drafting three solid linemen, which completes the line rebuild process. While they are still one of the youngest and lowest paid offenses in the NFL, there is still a whole bunch of potential and talent on their offensive side. The Steelers' offensive success will be driven by how well the o-line improves and attacks blocks on the field.
What do you think? Could we possibly see McCormick on the field for the Steelers for the next 10 years, becoming another Pittsburgh legend to wear number 66? Let us know in the comments below!
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