Steelers Reveal What It Takes For A Small School Player Like Mason McCormick To Catch Their Attention

The Pittsburgh Steelers added to their already impressive 2024 draft class by selecting Mason McCormick out of South Dakota State. The pick came as a surprise to some, as guard didn't seem to be a position that was needed for the 2024 season, and Pittsburgh may have been better off addressing the defensive line or the secondary. Regardless, McCormick tested off the charts during the pre-draft process and did what it took to get on the Steelers' radar. 

It's not often that a player from a school like South Dakota State gets drafted. It is a school that doesn't get much attention on the national level and they often don't play high levels of competition. The Steelers Offensive Line Coach Pay Meyer discussed picking McCormick in the fourth round, and shared what type of things he showed that got him on the Steelers radar which ultimately led to him being the pick.

"The leap from college to the NFL is going to be a huge jump for all of them, everyday their playing against the best. You look for the traits, in terms of physical traits and play style. What redeeming qualities do they have? Whats their athletic makeup?" Meyer then spoke about watching his tape against Iowa. "It's good when they have that and when they play a major power five school. You study that one a lot. The competition is what it is, they typically have betters athletes or better players."

McCormick squared off against Iowa during the 2022 season, where he and his team lost the game 7-3. Meyer said McCormick played well in the game against higher competition, he recorded a grade of 81.2 from PFF for his play during the 2022 season when he went against Iowa. 

Steelers' McCormick Had Flawless College Career

McCormick allowed just two sacks across three seasons during his college football career. He has played over 800 snaps in every season since 2021, and has allowed just two sacks, two hits and 16 hurries. There are some linemen that allow those numbers in a single season, yet McCormick was as consistent as it comes when it comes to protecting his quarterback. His best season came in 2023, when he allowed zero sacks and just three hurries while receiving a grade of 87.6 from PFF.

McCormick played every snap of his college career at left guard, and that spot is currently occupied by Isaac Seumalo for the Steelers. It is unlikely McCormick sees the field much in 2024 barring any injuries, but he does have a chance to earn a starting spot as both of the Steelers starting guards contracts expire within the next two seasons.