Veteran Lineman Nate Herbig Out for Season
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been dealt a significant blow to their offensive line as veteran interior lineman Nate Herbig is out for the season after suffering a torn rotator cuff. The injury, which occurred during Pittsburgh's final training camp practice, has led to Herbig being placed on season-ending injured reserve. This development poses a significant challenge for the Steelers' offensive line, which has already been under scrutiny during the preseason.
Herbig, a 26-year-old six-year veteran, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position. Over his career, Herbig has played 61 regular-season games, including 30 starts, making him a key component of the offensive line. His absence will leave a notable gap as the team prepares for the regular season.
Rookie Zach Frazier Steps Up
In light of Herbig's injury, rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier has been tapped to assume the starting center position. Frazier showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills, demonstrating the skills and composure necessary for the role.
The confidence in Frazier's abilities is echoed by veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. "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 remarked, highlighting Frazier's poise and readiness to step up to the challenge.
Injuries Continue to Plague the Offensive Line
Herbig's injury is not the only setback for the Steelers' offensive line. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans, sidelining him for several weeks. These injuries have further complicated the efforts of the offensive line to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during the preseason.
The Steelers' likely starting offensive line will now revolve around a mix of veterans and younger talent. Once healthy, Fautanu is expected to secure a starting tackle position. In the meantime, the line will feature James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo as the veteran guards, with second-year tackle Broderick Jones expected to start.
Competition Heats Up
The competition for starting spots remains intense, with Dan Moore Jr. actively competing to retain his place in the lineup. The Steelers are ensuring a thorough evaluation of the health and performance of their offensive line as the regular season approaches, understanding the critical importance of a stable and effective line to their overall offensive strategy.
With the regular season just around the corner, the Steelers' coaching staff will need to navigate these challenges and foster cohesion among the available players. The blend of experienced veterans and promising rookies like Frazier offers a glimmer of hope, despite the setbacks experienced during the preseason.
The offensive line will undoubtedly be a focal point for the Steelers, as they aim to provide the necessary protection for their quarterbacks and establish a strong foundation for the team's success going forward.