The Pittsburgh Steelers have encountered a significant setback to their offensive line, losing veteran interior lineman Nate Herbig to a torn rotator cuff. Herbig, who sustained the injury during the team's final training camp session, is anticipated to miss the entire regular season.
A Promising Start Halted
At 26 years old, Herbig was on the cusp of taking over as the Steelers' starting center, a pivotal role for any football team. Having spent his first five seasons primarily as a guard, this transition represented a key development in both his career and the Steelers' offensive strategy. Herbig's résumé includes 61 regular-season games and 30 starts, underscoring his valuable experience and resilience on the field.
Next Man Up: Zach Frazier
With Herbig's unfortunate exit, rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier has been tasked with stepping into the center role. Frazier recently marked his first career start with a preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills, a significant milestone for the young lineman. The pressures of stepping into a starting role so early in his career have not gone unnoticed.
Reflecting on Frazier's demeanor and readiness, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson noted, "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." Such commendation from an established player is a testament to Frazier's potential and composure under pressure.
Additional Challenges for the Offensive Line
Compounding the setback is the temporary loss of rookie tackle Troy Fautanu, who suffered an injury during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Fautanu is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, further testing the depth and versatility of the Steelers' offensive line.
Potential Starting Lineup
Amidst these injuries, the Steelers are likely to see an anticipated offensive line configuration that includes Frazier at center, flanked by veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo. Second-year tackle Broderick Jones is also poised to play a crucial role. Additionally, the five-year offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is in the midst of a competitive battle to retain his spot in the starting lineup.
The Steelers' coaching staff and fans alike will be closely monitoring the development and performance of this restructured line. While the absence of players like Herbig and Fautanu presents undeniable challenges, the surge of youthful talent and the perseverance of experienced players offer a glimmer of hope as the team strives for a cohesive and robust unit.
The adaptability and resilience of the Steelers' offensive line will undeniably be put to the test as they navigate the upcoming season's rigors. The evolution of players like Zach Frazier will be particularly vital, not just for immediate performance but in setting a foundation for the future.
As preseason progresses and the regular season looms, it will be intriguing to see how the team adjusts and evolves in response to these early obstacles. The Steelers remain committed to forging ahead, bolstered by seasoned veterans and inspired rookies alike.