Veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig's ambitions for the upcoming NFL season have taken a significant hit. The 26-year-old, who has played in 61 regular-season games and logged 30 starts over his six-year career, has been placed on season-ending injured reserve following a torn rotator cuff. The injury, which happened during Pittsburgh's final training camp practice, has left a sizable gap in the Steelers' offensive line, compounded by other injuries and lineup changes.
Changing the Guard
With Herbig transitioning to the center position, the Steelers had hoped to bolster their offensive line with his experience and skill. His absence is particularly untimely as the team navigates through an unsettling preseason. Rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier is now set to step up as the starting center. Frazier showcased his potential and resilience in his first career start during a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills, offering a glimpse of his capabilities at a higher level of competition.
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson expressed confidence in Frazier despite the rookie's inexperience. "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." This endorsement from Wilson bodes well for Frazier's integration into the starting lineup.
More Injury Woes
Frazier's rapid ascension isn't the only development in Pittsburgh's offensive line. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans. Expected to be sidelined for several weeks, Fautanu's absence compounds the challenges faced by the Steelers' front five. Upon his return, the likely starting lineup will include Fautanu at tackle, Frazier at center, veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, and second-year tackle Broderick Jones.
Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup, adding another layer of competition and complexity to the Steelers' offensive line configuration. The team will need to closely monitor both health and performance levels as the regular season approaches to ensure they can protect their quarterbacks effectively.
Struggles in Protection
The Steelers' offensive line struggles have been glaring during their first two preseason games. Both Wilson and Justin Fields have faced relentless pressure, highlighting the pressing need for a cohesive and capable unit up front. The offensive line's ability to provide adequate protection has become a focal point for the team, necessitating a swift response to address their vulnerabilities.
As the regular season looms, the Steelers face the dual challenge of nurturing young talent while hoping for the swift return of sidelined players like Fautanu. This constant flux within the offensive line will test the adaptability and resilience of the team. While the insertion of Frazier and the anticipated return of Fautanu provide a glimpse of promise, the Steelers’ coaching staff will need to remain vigilant, ensuring that their quarterbacks can operate effectively behind an ever-evolving line.
The Steelers' fortunes this season may well hinge on these developing stories within their offensive line, with the performance of rookies like Frazier under the spotlight. Ensuring a stable O-line will be crucial in achieving the balance needed to compete at the highest level, underscoring the significance of this preseason upheaval.
Pittsburgh's journey through the NFL season will demand both strategic adjustments and steadfast determination, as the team works to transform these early setbacks into a cohesive and formidable front, ready to protect their signal-callers and drive their offense forward.