Nate Herbig's Season-Ending Injury Rocks Steelers' Offensive Line Plans
In a major setback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has been sidelined for the season due to a torn rotator cuff. The injury, which occurred during the final training camp practice, led to Herbig being placed on season-ending injured reserve, thereby forcing the Steelers to reconfigure their offensive line strategy.
Transitioning to Center Position
Herbig, a 26-year-old who has played 61 regular-season games with 30 starts, was transitioning to the center position. This injury comes at an inopportune time as he was expected to play a pivotal role in providing stability to the Steelers' offensive line. His absence leaves a significant gap that needs rapid addressing as the regular season edges closer.
Rookie Zach Frazier Steps Up
Stepping into this void is rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier, who now has the challenge of assuming the starting center position. Frazier showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason bout against the Buffalo Bills, despite the team facing a loss. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson has expressed confidence in the young center, 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."
Tackling the Offensive Line Troubles
The Steelers' offensive line woes are further complicated by another injury. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu was injured during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans and will be sidelined for several weeks. This adds to the strain on an already beleaguered lineup, which has struggled to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during their first two preseason games.
The likely starting five for the Steelers now includes Frazier at center, Fautanu at tackle once he returns from injury, veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, and second-year tackle Broderick Jones. Another layer of competition involves Dan Moore Jr., who is actively fighting to maintain his spot in the starting lineup.
Monitoring Health and Performance
As the regular season approaches, the Steelers will be closely monitoring both the health and performance of their offensive linemen. The task now is to build chemistry and resilience in a line that has seen significant disruption. The ability to protect the quarterbacks will be crucial for the team's aspirations this season. The coaching staff and fans alike will be watching Frazier's progression as he steps into a role of immense responsibility so early in his career.
The Steelers' resilience will be tested, but with young talents like Frazier stepping up and seasoned players anchoring the line, there remains optimism that the team can navigate these turbulent times and emerge stronger.