The Pittsburgh Steelers received a major blow with news that center Nate Herbig is expected to be sidelined for a significant amount of time due to a torn rotator cuff. Herbig, who played a crucial role as an interior offensive lineman, sustained the injury during training camp. This injury has forced the team to turn to rookie center Zach Frazier to step up and fill the void left by Herbig.
Zach Frazier, a second-round draft pick out of West Virginia, has been thrust into the starting role earlier than expected due to Herbig’s injury. While Frazier was drafted with the intention of eventually becoming the team’s starting center, the circumstances have accelerated his development. Frazier showcased his potential in the Steelers’ preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, earning praise from both coaches and teammates for his work ethic and physicality.
With Herbig sidelined, the Steelers are faced with a significant depth issue in the interior offensive line. Herbig’s versatility as a position-flexible lineman made him a valuable asset as the team’s top reserve in the previous season. His absence leaves a void in the team’s depth chart, with seventh-round pick Spencer Anderson and fourth-round pick Mason McCormick emerging as possible candidates to provide depth behind Frazier and the starting guards.
The team’s coaching staff is closely monitoring Herbig’s injury and is awaiting a second opinion before determining the extent of his absence. While the loss of Herbig is undoubtedly a setback for the Steelers, it presents an opportunity for young players like Frazier to showcase their potential and contribute to the team’s success. As the Steelers navigate through the remainder of the preseason and prepare for the upcoming regular season, the focus will be on maximizing the potential of the players available and adapting to the challenges presented by injuries.
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