The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line has been dealt a substantial setback with the loss of veteran interior lineman Nate Herbig. Herbig, who was expected to anchor the line as the starting center this season, suffered a torn rotator cuff during the team's final training camp practice. This injury is projected to sideline him for the entirety of the regular season.
At just 26 years old, Herbig was set to transition from his previous role primarily as a guard, a position he held throughout his first five seasons in the NFL, to a pivotal role at center. Herbig's experience, which includes appearances in 61 regular-season games and 30 starts, was highly anticipated to fortify the Steelers' offensive line.
In Herbig's absence, the Steelers have turned to rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier. Frazier, who made a notable impression during Saturday night's preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, stepped into the role with a sense of resolve and readiness. As Russell Wilson observed, "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."
However, the hurdles for the Steelers' offensive line do not end with Herbig's injury. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu also faces time out after sustaining an injury in the preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Fautanu is expected to be on the sidelines for several weeks, adding to the team's challenges.
Despite these setbacks, the Steelers are piecing together an anticipated offensive line that might feature Zach Frazier at center. Veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo are expected to bring their experience and stability to the line, while second-year tackle Broderick Jones is set to take on an increased role. Additionally, five-year offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is in a battle to retain his spot in the starting lineup, a testament to the depth and competition within the team.
As the Steelers look ahead to the regular season, their offensive line will undoubtedly be under scrutiny. The team's ability to adapt and integrate new players like Frazier will be a crucial factor in their performance. The resilience and readiness of these players, despite the numerous challenges, will be pivotal in navigating the long season ahead.
For now, the Steelers' faithful await the first snaps of the regular season with cautious optimism, hopeful that this patchwork offensive line can hold firm and provide the support needed for the team's success. Herbig's absence is keenly felt, but the opportunity it presents for the new faces on the line could very well define the Steelers' season.