The world of professional football is abuzz with anticipation as we delve into the potential breakout stars of the 2026 NFL season. Among the players generating buzz is Mason McCormick, the Pittsburgh Steelers' third-year guard. McCormick's journey, from an up-and-down rookie season to a promising sophomore campaign, has caught the eye of analysts like Bradley Locklear from Pro Football Focus.
Locklear's recent inclusion of McCormick in the 2026 NFL All-Breakout Team highlights the player's potential for a significant leap forward this year. This recognition is particularly noteworthy given McCormick's expected role as the Steelers' starting left guard.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the context of McCormick's improvement. His overall PFF grade, which jumped from 57.7 as a rookie to an impressive 72.9 in his second season, was largely driven by his performance in the latter half of the season. From Week 10 onwards, McCormick's overall grade soared to 79.2, with an exceptional 81.0 PFF pass-blocking mark.
In my opinion, this late-season surge is a testament to McCormick's growth and adaptability. It's a trend that bodes well for his future, especially with the Steelers' new head coach, Mike McCarthy, emphasizing the importance of protecting veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
However, as Locklear points out, McCormick's journey is not without its challenges. While he has established himself as a reliable pass protector, there is still room for improvement in his run game and overall consistency. This is a common growth path for young offensive linemen, and it's an area where McCormick can focus his development to reach the upper echelon of NFL guards.
The Steelers' investment in young talent on the offensive line is paying dividends, and McCormick's continued growth would be a welcome sign for the team. If he can maintain the momentum he built late last season, McCormick has the potential to become one of the NFL's breakout offensive linemen in 2026.
As we eagerly await the upcoming season, McCormick's story serves as a reminder that breakout performances often come from players who have quietly honed their craft and are poised for a breakthrough. It's an exciting prospect, and one that football fans and analysts alike will be eagerly tracking.
What do you think? Will Mason McCormick live up to the breakout potential? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
