Nate Herbig Out for Season with Torn Rotator Cuff
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line, veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has been diagnosed with a torn rotator cuff, an injury that will sideline him for the entire season. The 26-year-old, who has been a stalwart in the NFL for six years, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position during Pittsburgh's final training camp practice when the injury occurred.
Herbig's journey in the NFL has been marked by resilience and versatility. Over the course of his 61 regular-season games, which include 30 starts, Herbig has showcased his ability to adapt and excel across various positions on the offensive line. This season was set to be a pivotal one as he made the shift to center, a role that demands both physical prowess and mental acuity.
The Steelers have responded to Herbig's injury by placing him on season-ending injured reserve, a move that underscores the severity of his condition. This development has created an opportunity for rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier to step into the spotlight. Frazier made an impression during his first career start in a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills, displaying a level of potential that has caught the attention of both coaches and teammates.
Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who has been acclimating to the Steelers' system, offered high praise for the rookie center. "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 stated, highlighting Frazier’s poise under pressure.
The injury woes for the Steelers do not end with Herbig. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu, another promising addition to the team, sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans. Fautanu's recovery will sideline him for several weeks, adding another challenge for the offensive line as the regular season looms.
The Steelers' offensive line has faced criticism for its inability to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during their first two preseason games. This deficiency has been a point of concern as the team prepares for the rigorous demands of the regular season.
Looking ahead, the likely starting five for the Steelers' offensive line will feature Zach Frazier at center, with Troy Fautanu projected to return to the tackle position once he recovers from his injury. The lineup will also include veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, along with second-year tackle Broderick Jones. Meanwhile, Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup, adding a layer of internal competition that could benefit the team’s overall performance.
The coaching staff and team management are keenly monitoring the health and performance of the offensive line as the regular season approaches. For the Steelers, solidifying a dependable and cohesive unit upfront is not just about individual talent but also about ensuring that the collective effort translates into effective protection and run-blocking schemes.
Nate Herbig's season-ending injury is a stark reminder of the physical toll professional football exacts on its players. As the Steelers adjust to this setback, the emergence of young talents like Zach Frazier offers a glimmer of hope. The preseason challenges have catalyzed a period of adjustment and recalibration, setting the stage for a season that will test the depth and resilience of Pittsburgh's offensive line.