Veteran Offensive Lineman Nate Herbig Out for Season with Torn Rotator Cuff
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers, veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a torn rotator cuff. The injury, which occurred during Pittsburgh's final training camp practice, has led to Herbig being placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Herbig, a six-year veteran at just 26 years old, was in the process of transitioning to the center position. With 61 regular-season games and 30 starts under his belt, Herbig's experience and versatility were expected to be crucial for the Steelers' offensive line this season.
Rookie Zach Frazier Steps Up
With Herbig sidelined, rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier will assume the starting center position. Frazier showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills. Despite the defeat, his performance has instilled confidence among teammates and coaches.
Reflecting on Frazier's composure under pressure, quarterback Russell Wilson noted, "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."
Injury Woes Continue with Troy Fautanu
Adding to Pittsburgh's woes, rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during the preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans. Fautanu is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, further challenging the depth and cohesion of the offensive line.
Offensive Line Struggles and Adjustments
Throughout the first two preseason games, the Steelers' offensive line has struggled to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks, including Wilson and Justin Fields. This issue has been a point of concern for the coaching staff as they orchestrate the final roster adjustments before the regular season.
The likely starting five, once Fautanu returns from his injury, will include Frazier at center, veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, second-year tackle Broderick Jones, and Fautanu himself. Additionally, Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup, adding another layer of competition and evaluation for the coaching staff.
Monitoring Health and Performance
As the regular season approaches, the Steelers will continue to monitor the health and performance of their offensive line. The need for a solid, cohesive unit up front is paramount for the team's success, and the coaching staff will need to adapt to the challenges posed by these injuries.
The road ahead may be fraught with difficulties for the Steelers' offensive line, but with young, promising talents like Frazier and seasoned veterans like Daniels, there remains a cautious optimism within the organization. Russell Wilson's confidence in Frazier's demeanor and performance underscores the potential for this group to overcome its current adversities.
Only time will tell how these adjustments will pan out as Pittsburgh refines its strategy and lineup, aiming to fortify the protection for their quarterbacks and establish a robust offensive front as the season unfolds.