Week 1 inactives for New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers inject notable fantasy volatility. Vera-Tucker and Lazard sit for the Jets, along with Braiden McGregor, thinning the interior and receiver depth. Jelani Woods is also listed as inactive, adding a wrinkle for tight end usage in the surrounding context. For Pittsburgh, the list includes Derrick Harmon, Nick Herbig, Skylar Thompson, Max Scharping, Andrus Peat, and Ese Otomewo, signaling shifts along both lines and depth on defense. The opening matchup now hinges on which role players seize expanded opportunities and how coaches deploy their depth charts in MetLife.

Fantasy takeaway: Jets must compensate for Vera-Tucker and Lazard with lineman shuffles and elevated targets for other pass-catchers, while Steelers’ inactives thin certain rotations but could boost opportunities for reserves on both sides of the ball. DFS and daily fantasy pivot to upside plays at the edges and in the Jets’ and Steelers’ supporting cast, with a wait-and-see lens on early-series snaps.

The Steelers shore up safety depth by re-signing Chuck Clark and Max Scharping, while placing Will Howard and Donte Kent on short-term IR. The moves come as Pittsburgh stacks experience behind DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill, and after Minkah Fitzpatrick’s trade-era absences. Clark’s return adds veteran versatility, while Scharping strengthens the interior line to support the run game and protect the young quarterback lineup.

The countdown to kickoff for the Pittsburgh Steelers is now at 64 days, leading up to their matchup against the New York Jets. In celebration, the history of the number 64 is examined, focusing on notable players who wore it. Currently, Max Scharping holds this number for the Steelers. Drafted in 2019 by the Houston Texans, Scharping has had a varied career, including stints with the Bengals and Eagles, before joining the Steelers after a brief time on the Commanders' practice squad.

Pittsburgh Steelers countdown reaches 71 days until their matchup against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Aiden Williams, the current wearer of No. 71, has an impressive collegiate background, being a three-time All-American and a 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl invitee. He faces competition from backup guards Max Scharping and Spencer Anderson for a roster spot. Historically, No. 71 has been donned by notable players like Charlie Bradshaw, a two-time Pro Bowler and integral part of the Steelers' offense in the 1960s.

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to bolster their offensive line by re-signing Max Scharping to a one-year contract. Scharping, a former second-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2019, brings versatility to the Steelers' offensive front, capable of playing tackle, guard, and center. After a tumultuous journey that included stints with multiple teams, including the Bengals and Commanders, he appeared in just two games for the Steelers last season.

His signing is a strategic move to enhance the offensive line's depth, but the Steelers still recognize the need to address the line in the upcoming draft. With veteran Isaac Seumalo nearing 32 and facing injury concerns, drafting an offensive lineman remains a priority despite Scharping's return.