The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing significant setbacks on their offensive line as they approach the new NFL season. Veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has been sidelined with a torn rotator cuff, an injury he sustained during the team's final training camp practice. This devastating blow has resulted in Herbig being placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Herbig, a 26-year-old player with six years of experience, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position. With a commendable record of playing 61 regular-season games, including 30 starts, his absence will be keenly felt by the Steelers' offensive unit. The injury has compelled the team to turn to rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier, who will now assume the starting center position.
Frazier Steps Up
Frazier showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills, demonstrating readiness and poise under pressure. The young lineman has already earned a vote of confidence from veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who commented on Frazier's maturity and composure on the field. "Anytime you're playing with a rookie center, you're playing with younger players, it's the eye contact in the huddle that you see. Does a guy blink or not? Is he fearful? And he has none of that," Wilson said.
Additional Injury Concerns
The challenges for the Steelers don’t end with Herbig's injury. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. This injury further complicates the situation for an offensive line already grappling with performance issues.
Throughout their first two preseason games, the Steelers' offensive line has struggled to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. These protection issues have been evident, raising concerns about the line's ability to safeguard their quarterbacks as the regular season looms closer.
Rebuilding the Offensive Front
With Herbig out and Fautanu temporarily sidelined, the likely starting five for the Steelers will now include Zach Frazier at center, veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, and second-year tackle Broderick Jones. Once Fautanu recovers, he is expected to reclaim his position at tackle. The competition for spots continues as Dan Moore Jr. actively vies to retain his place in the starting lineup.
As they navigate this period of transition and recovery, the Steelers will be closely monitoring the health and performance of their offensive line. The integration of younger players like Frazier and the return of key figures such as Fautanu will be pivotal in stabilizing the line. The experiences from the preseason have underscored the need for a cohesive and resilient offensive front, a crucial factor in the team's aspirations for the regular season.
With the regular season fast approaching, the Steelers are tasked with addressing these challenges head-on. The mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies like Frazier provides hope, but the road ahead will require meticulous planning and adaptation. As the team continues to prepare, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain fixed on the evolving dynamics of their offensive line.