Veteran Offensive Lineman Nate Herbig Out for Season with Torn Rotator Cuff
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line, veteran interior lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a torn rotator cuff, hastily ending his season before it truly began. The injury occurred during the final practice of Pittsburgh's training camp, leading to Herbig's placement on the season-ending injured reserve list.
Herbig, a 26-year-old with six years of NFL experience, was in the midst of transitioning to the center position. Having played 61 regular-season games—including 30 starts—his presence and experience were expected to stabilize the line. The Steelers will now need to adapt quickly to this sudden change as the regular season looms.
Rookie Zach Frazier Steps Up
One bright spot in this situation is rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier, who will now step in as the starting center. Frazier has already demonstrated his potential, showing solid performance during his first career start in a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. Steeler’s quarterback Russell Wilson commented on Frazier's readiness: "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."
The eye test appears to favor Frazier as he takes on this crucial role. Wilson's confidence in Frazier's poise under pressure bodes well for the team's offensive structure, though the line has not been without its challenges in early preseason outings.
Injury Woes and Offensive Line Struggles
The Steelers' offensive line has been under scrutiny after struggling to offer adequate protection for quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields in their first two preseason matches. The situation was further compounded when rookie tackle Troy Fautanu sustained an injury during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans, which will sideline him for several weeks.
The team’s starting setup could see Frazier at center and Fautanu at tackle once he returns from his injury. Alongside them, veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo will hold the line, with second-year tackle Broderick Jones likely securing his spot. Additionally, Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his position in the starting lineup, adding another layer of intrigue and challenge to the Steelers' roster decisions.
Looking Ahead
With the regular season approaching, Pittsburgh will closely monitor the health and performance of its offensive line. The organization aims to foster a cohesive unit that can offer stronger protection and open running lanes, which are essential for a successful offensive strategy. Frazier’s unexpected elevation to starting center, coupled with the eventual return of Fautanu, will be pivotal elements in the Steelers' journey this season.
While Nate Herbig's injury has reshuffled the deck, it presents an opportunity for younger players like Frazier to rise to the occasion. The resilience and adaptive capability of the Steelers' offensive line will be tested, but the early signs suggest that they are up for the challenge.