The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line faces a formidable challenge as it navigates the 2023 NFL season, grappling with the significant loss of seasoned interior lineman Nate Herbig. Herbig, a key figure in the Steelers' plans, tore his rotator cuff during the team's final training camp practice and is projected to miss the entire regular season.
A Major Setback
At just 26 years old, Herbig was slated to make a pivotal transition to the role of starting center after primarily playing as a guard over his first five seasons. His experience, comprising 61 regular-season games and 30 starts, was set to provide steadiness and expertise to the Steelers' offensive line. However, the unfortunate injury has thrust the team into a reconfiguration mode.
Rookie Stepping Up
In a swift response to Herbig’s absence, rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier has been tasked with stepping into the critical center position. Frazier, who made his first career start during Saturday night's preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills, has shown promising potential. His quick adaptation to the role will be crucial as the regular season approaches.
Veteran NFL quarterback Russell Wilson emphasized the importance of poise in such situations: "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’s observation offers a vote of confidence in Frazier's readiness to handle the pressures of the NFL.
Further Complications
Adding to the Steelers' woes, rookie tackle Troy Fautanu also sustained an injury. Fautanu went down during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans, and he is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. This development further complicates the team’s efforts to build a cohesive and effective offensive line unit.
Rebuilding the Front Line
In light of these injuries, the anticipated starting offensive line group may now include Frazier at center, with veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo providing stability on either side. Second-year tackle Broderick Jones is expected to protect the quarterback's blind side, while five-year offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is fighting to maintain his position in the starting lineup.
These adjustments introduce a blend of youth and experience, which will be tested early and often throughout the season. The onus will be on the coaching staff to ensure that the line can gel quickly, protecting the quarterback and opening lanes for the running game.
As the Steelers brace for a challenging road ahead, the resilience and adaptability of their revamped offensive line will be key to maintaining competitive performance. The untimely injuries to Herbig and Fautanu have set the stage for new opportunities and tests for this storied franchise.
With the regular season looming, the spotlight will be on Zach Frazier and his ability to step up under pressure. Supported by seasoned veterans and guided by vigilant coaching, the Steelers hope to overcome these early setbacks and forge a path to success.