Veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a significant setback, as the Pittsburgh Steelers confirmed Herbig has torn his rotator cuff. This unfortunate injury, sustained during the team's final training camp practice, has resulted in Herbig being placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Herbig, a 26-year-old six-year veteran, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position, adding depth and experience to the Steelers' offensive line. Over his career, Herbig has played 61 regular-season games, including 30 starts, showcasing his versatility and reliability. His absence undoubtedly leaves a void that Pittsburgh will have to address as they head into the regular season.
Next Man Up: Zach Frazier
With Herbig sidelined, the Steelers have turned to rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier to assume the starting center position. Despite being a newcomer, Frazier has already made an impression, particularly during his first career start in a preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills.
The transition to a rookie center often comes with its set of challenges. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson shed light on this dynamic, 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." Such endorsements offer a glimmer of hope that Frazier is well-equipped to handle the pressures of starting in the NFL.
Injury Woes Continue with Troy Fautanu
The preseason has not been kind to the Steelers' offensive line, as rookie tackle Troy Fautanu also sustained an injury during the team's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans. Fautanu will be sidelined for several weeks, further complicating the situation for Pittsburgh's front line.
These injuries have magnified the struggles of the Steelers' offensive line, which has already faced criticism for failing to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during the first two preseason games.
Shuffling the Lineup
As the regular season approaches, the Steelers will need to make some adjustments. The likely starting five now includes Frazier at center and Fautanu at tackle once he returns from his injury. Veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, along with second-year tackle Broderick Jones, will complete the lineup.
In the meantime, Dan Moore Jr. remains active in his competition to retain a spot in the starting lineup. This period of evaluation will be critical for the Steelers as they monitor the health and performance of their offensive line and make necessary adjustments.
Challenges and Adjustments
The Steelers' offensive line will undoubtedly be under the microscope as they head into the regular season. Ensuring the health and readiness of their key players will be paramount, especially given the current circumstances. Head coach Mike Tomlin and his coaching staff will need to make strategic decisions to bolster the line and protect their playmakers.
While injuries to key players like Herbig and Fautanu are certainly setbacks, they also provide an opportunity for younger talents to step up and prove themselves. Zach Frazier's ascent to the starting center role exemplifies this, and his performance will be closely watched as the season progresses.
The resilience and adaptability of the Steelers' offensive line will play a crucial role in their overall success this season. As the team navigates these challenges, the focus will remain on building a cohesive and effective unit capable of providing the protection needed for their quarterbacks to thrive.