The Pittsburgh Steelers have reportedly received some good news when it comes to the injury status of rookie first-round draft pick Troy Fautanu. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, it is a mild MCL sprain for Fautanu is not considered a serious injury.

#Steelers OL Troy Fautanu suffered a minor MCL sprain in Friday’s preseason opener, per source. Not considered serious for Pittsburgh’s first-rounder.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 10, 2024

According to Pro Football Focus, Fautanu played 25 of 59 offensive snaps in the Steelers preseason opener on Friday. There were only five players on the Steelers who played more offensive snaps with four of them being on the offensive line. Kyle Allen, Spencer Anderson, and Broderick Jones each logged 42 snaps while Zach Frazier played 39 and Mason McCormick played 33.

Fautanu is currently fighting for a starting position as the Steelers are mainly focusing on three offensive tackles for their two starting spots. Broderick Jones appears to be able to start on either side of the line with Fautanu only getting snaps on the right side thus far. Dan Moore Jr., who played the least offensive snaps of anyone appearing in the game for the Steelers Friday night with six, has been the starter for the Steelers at left tackle for the last seasons.

Whether or not his injury will keep him on the sidelines for the Steelers next preseason game on Saturday against the Buffalo Bills is unknown at this time. Most likely his participation in the game will come down to his ability to practice. The Steelers have three remaining training camp practice on Sunday afternoon, Monday morning, and Wednesday morning. The Steelers are also scheduled for a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium on Thursday.

Although seeing Fautanu in action in the next preseason game could go a long way in determining who will be starting at tackle come Week 1, the more important issue is having Fautanu healthy and available for games that count in the standings.

Stay tuned to Steel Curtain Network for continued coverage of the Pittsburgh Steelers as they finish up training camp and prepare for their final two preseason matchups.