Veteran offensive lineman Nate Herbig is set to miss the entire season after suffering a torn rotator cuff, a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive line. The injury, incurred during the team's final training camp practice, necessitated placing Herbig on season-ending injured reserve.
Herbig, a sturdy presence on the interior line, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position. At 26 and with six years in the NFL, Herbig has played 61 regular-season games, including 30 starts, bringing considerable experience to the squad. His absence leaves a void the Steelers must fill as they gear up for the regular season.
The mantle of starting center now falls to rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier. Frazier impressed in his first career start during a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills, showcasing his potential as a reliable addition to the line. The young center has already drawn positive attention for his composed demeanor and performance under pressure. Russell Wilson, commenting on the responsibilities placed upon rookies in such vital positions, remarked, “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 readiness to step into a pivotal role is just one of several adjustments facing the Steelers. Their offensive line has shown vulnerabilities, struggling to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields throughout the first two preseason games. This has put a spotlight on their ability to adapt and improve before the regular season kicks off.
The line's instability is further tested by injuries beyond Herbig's. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. His absence further complicates the Steelers' efforts to stabilize and strengthen their offensive line.
Amidst these challenges, the probable starting lineup is beginning to take shape. Besides Frazier at center, the Steelers will likely deploy Fautanu at tackle once he returns from injury, flanked by veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo. Second-year tackle Broderick Jones is also expected to have a significant role. Meanwhile, Dan Moore Jr. remains in active competition, aiming to secure his spot in the starting lineup. The team will continue to closely monitor the health and performance of these linemen as the season approaches.
Despite the setbacks, the Steelers are not devoid of talent or potential. The blend of seasoned players and promising newcomers offers a dynamic mix needed to forge a capable and resilient offensive line. The coming weeks will be critical as the team adjusts and finds its rhythm, ideally rejuvenating a line that can offer solid protection and enable their quarterbacks to execute effectively.
With Herbig sidelined and Frazier poised to step up, the Steelers face a crucial test of depth and adaptability. The developments in their offensive line will be essential in defining their season, ensuring they are ready to compete come game day.