Herbig Out for Season, Steelers’ Offensive Line Struggles
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a significant setback as veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a torn rotator cuff, subsequently being placed on season-ending injured reserve. The injury occurred during Pittsburgh's final training camp session, dealing a heavy blow to the team's offensive line stability.
Herbig, a six-year veteran at just 26 years old, was transitioning to the center position—a move that promised to bring experience and reliability to the heart of the Steelers' offensive line. Over his career, Herbig has amassed experience in 61 regular-season games, including 30 starts. His absence leaves a notable gap in both talent and leadership.
Next Man Up: Zach Frazier
Rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier is set to step into this critical role. Frazier showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason showdown against the Buffalo Bills, hinting at a promising future despite the Steelers' loss. His performance is now under the microscope as he assumes the starting center position.
Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson expressed confidence in the young player, 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." Frazier's composure and determination will be crucial as he navigates the responsibilities of his new position.
Injuries Plague the Offensive Line
Herbig's injury isn’t the only setback for Pittsburgh's offensive front. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu also sustained an injury during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Fautanu is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, compounding the challenges faced by the Steelers as they prepare for the regular season.
The slew of injuries has come at a critical time. The Steelers' offensive line has struggled in their first two preseason games, failing to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields. These issues highlight the urgent need for cohesion and effectiveness within the unit.
Projecting the Starting Lineup
As the regular season inches closer, the Steelers are likely to field an offensive line featuring Frazier at center and Fautanu at tackle once he returns from injury. The line will also likely include veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, alongside second-year tackle Broderick Jones. Another player to watch is Dan Moore Jr., who is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup.
With multiple young players and newcomers in pivotal positions, the Steelers' offensive line faces a steep learning curve. The coaching staff will need to strategically manage player development, performance, and health to ensure a functional and protective line for the quarterbacks.
Outlook
The coming weeks will be critical for the Steelers as they continue to monitor the health and performance of their offensive line. Ensuring that Frazier transitions smoothly into his role as starting center and that Fautanu recovers appropriately will be key to stabilizing an offensive line that has shown signs of vulnerability.
For now, the Steelers must adapt to the unforeseen challenges posed by injuries and integrate their young talents efficiently. The direction the season takes could hinge significantly on how the offensive line evolves from these early trials.