Former Pitt OT Making First NFL Start

Sam Monticello to start vs. Colts

INDIANAPOLIS -- Former Pitt offensive lineman Sam Monticello will make his first NFL start on Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers visit the Indianapolis Colts. Monticello, a sixth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has been filling in at right tackle for the injured Chukwuma Okorafor.

Monticello started 36 games at left tackle for the Panthers from 2018-21. He was named All-ACC honorable mention as a senior.

The Steelers are hoping that Monticello can provide some stability to an offensive line that has struggled at times this season. Pittsburgh is ranked 29th in the NFL in rushing offense and 21st in passing offense.

Monticello will be facing a tough test in his first NFL start. The Colts have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL, led by All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner.

But Monticello is confident that he is ready for the challenge. "I'm just going to go out there and play my game," Monticello said. "I'm not going to try to do too much. I'm just going to do my job and help the team win."

The Steelers are hoping that Monticello can be a long-term solution at right tackle. Okorafor is expected to miss several more weeks with a knee injury.

If Monticello can play well in his first NFL start, he could earn himself a permanent spot in the Steelers' starting lineup.