Pittsburgh Steelers Face Setbacks with Offensive Line Injuries
In a blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ preparations for the upcoming NFL season, veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a torn rotator cuff. The injury, incurred during the team's final training camp practice, has placed Herbig on season-ending injured reserve. This development adds a significant challenge to an already struggling offensive line.
Herbig, a 26-year-old six-year veteran, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position. With 61 regular-season games under his belt, including 30 starts, his experience was expected to bolster the Steelers' line this season. His absence now puts immense pressure on rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier, who will step in as the starting center.
Frazier showed promise in his first career start during a preseason outing against the Buffalo Bills, despite the team's overall loss. His potential has not gone unnoticed by teammates and coaching staff alike. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson commented on his composure, stating, "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."
Herbig’s injury is not the only concern for Pittsburgh’s offensive line. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during the Steelers' preseason opener against the Houston Texans and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. This additional setback leaves the line in a precarious position as the regular season approaches.
Frazier will be at center, with the likely starting lineup also penciling in veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, and young tackle Broderick Jones, who is in his second year. Fautanu will take his position at tackle once he recovers. The situation remains fluid, as Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup, adding another layer of uncertainty to the configuration.
The injuries and reconfigurations have underscored the Steelers' ongoing struggles to provide solid protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during the preseason. Enhancing the performance and stability of the offensive line will be a top priority for the Steelers as the regular season draws near.
Head coach Mike Tomlin and the coaching staff continue to monitor the health and performance of their line, knowing the pivotal role it plays in offensive success. As Herbig rehabilitates and Fautanu works towards his return, the Steelers must adapt quickly to maintain competitiveness in a demanding division.
The stakes have never been higher for Pittsburgh's offensive line, requiring a blend of veteran leadership and rookie potential to come together harmoniously. As the Steelers brace for the challenges ahead, the resilience and determination of their lineup will be put to the test.