The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line has been dealt a critical blow just before the start of the regular season. Veteran interior lineman Nate Herbig, a key player expected to anchor the line as the starting center, has been sidelined with a significant injury. Herbig tore his rotator cuff during the team’s final training camp practice, an injury severe enough to keep him out for the entire season.
Aged 26, Herbig was not just a lineman but a strategic piece for the Steelers’ offensive front. Having spent the first five years of his career primarily playing as a guard, Herbig brought a wealth of experience, featuring in 61 regular-season games and making 30 starts. This transition to center was highly anticipated, and his absence leaves a void to be filled by a relatively inexperienced player.
Stepping Up: Zach Frazier
In the wake of Herbig's injury, the team has turned to rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier. The young lineman has already been thrust into the spotlight, making his first career start during the preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. A rookie stepping into such a critical role brings its own set of challenges, but Frazier appears to be handling the pressure well.
Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson noted Frazier's composure under pressure, commenting, "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."
Additional Challenges
Compounding the Steelers’ challenges is the injury to rookie tackle Troy Fautanu. Fautanu was hurt during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. His absence further strains an offensive line that is already facing significant hurdles.
Projected Lineup
With these injuries, the Steelers’ anticipated offensive line for the season opener might consist of Zach Frazier at center, flanked by veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo. Second-year tackle Broderick Jones is also expected to be a key player, while five-year offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is in a fierce battle to maintain his position in the starting lineup.
The Steelers' depth will be tested early, and the adaptation of younger players like Frazier and Jones will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of their offensive front. The team’s ability to gel as a unit, in the wake of Herbig's and Fautanu's injuries, will play a significant role in their overall performance this season.
As the Steelers navigate these challenges, the focus will undoubtedly be on how well the new and established players can come together to protect the quarterback and establish the run game. With the leadership of seasoned veterans and the potential of young talent, the team hopes to overcome these early setbacks and build a cohesive line capable of competing at the highest level.