Nate Herbig's Season Cut Short by Rotator Cuff Injury
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line, veteran interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig has suffered a season-ending torn rotator cuff. The injury occurred during the team's final training camp practice, forcing Herbig to be placed on injured reserve.
Herbig, a 26-year-old who has been a mainstay in the league for six years, was preparing for a critical transition to the center position. With 61 regular-season games under his belt, including 30 starts, his experience was expected to be a cornerstone for the Steelers' line this season. However, his abrupt exit leaves a significant gap and alters the dynamic of the team's offensive strategy.
Rookie Zach Frazier Steps Up
In the wake of Herbig's injury, rookie second-round pick Zach Frazier will now take over the starting center duties. Frazier quickly showcased his potential during his first career start in a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. The young center's poise under pressure was noted by veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who stated, "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 calm demeanor and readiness to embrace the starting role come at a crucial time for the Steelers, who are dealing with multiple injuries and performance issues on their offensive line.
Injury Woes Continue
The Steelers' injury problems are not limited to Herbig. Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu also sustained an injury during Pittsburgh's preseason-opening loss to the Houston Texans, sidelining him for several weeks. The absence of Fautanu, coupled with Herbig's season-ending injury, further complicates the Steelers' offensive line configuration.
As the team navigates these challenges, the likely starting five will include Frazier at center and Fautanu at tackle once he recovers. They will join veteran guards James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo, along with second-year tackle Broderick Jones. Additionally, Dan Moore Jr. is actively competing to retain his spot in the starting lineup, adding another layer of complexity to the line's makeup.
Offensive Line Struggles
The injuries come at a time when the Steelers' offensive line has been underperforming in preseason play. The unit has struggled to provide adequate protection for quarterbacks Wilson and Justin Fields during their first two games. These protection issues have spotlighted the need for more cohesive play and better execution up front.
The coaching staff will be meticulously monitoring the health and performance of their offensive line as the regular season approaches, with a focus on minimizing disruptions and ensuring the line can gel despite the revolving door of personnel.
Looking Forward
While the loss of Herbig is a severe setback, the emergence of players like Frazier offers a glimmer of hope. The young center's ability to step into a pivotal role and perform under pressure will be crucial for the Steelers moving forward. As Frazier takes on greater responsibility, his development will be closely watched, and his ability to anchor the line will be essential for the Steelers' offensive success this season.
The injuries and subsequent lineup changes present both challenges and opportunities for the team. With veteran presence and emerging talent, the Steelers will aim to stabilize their offensive line to ensure they can effectively protect their quarterbacks and establish a robust offensive front as the season progresses.