It’s already nearing shambles for the Steelers offensive line. Key players have suffered setbacks, and this Sunday’s past performance in the run game wasn’t exactly encouraging. A unit that was trending in the right direction has now put immense pressure on the coaching staff to find solutions and maintain offensive productivity. About a quarter way through the season, they are already hanging on by a thread. Now adding James Daniels’ torn Achilles, fans can only hope Isaac Seumalo’s return can patch things up. These injuries have forced young linemen into prominent roles, leading to struggles in run blocking and pass protection. This unit is the center of the offense’s focal problems once again. It is something the coaches will have the game-plan around.
Injury Timeline
This unit wasn’t even 100% healthy before the regular season began. During training camp, backup center/guard Nate Herbig suffered a torn rotator cuff, ending his 2024 season. This injury dealt a blow to the team’s depth, but set the stage for rookie Zach Frazier to secure the role. Another setback occurred when backup tackle Dylan Cook sustained a Lisfranc injury to his foot in the second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. Although placed on the designated-to-return list, Cook’s absence was expected to extend beyond the initial eligibility period in Week 5.
Week 1-2 Losses
In Week 1, rookie right tackle Troy Fautanu dressed but did not play due to an MCL sprain in his left knee from the first preseason game. However, the coaching staff inserted him into the starting lineup for Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, replacing Broderick Jones. The situation took a turn for the worse during practice on September 20 when Fautanu suffered ligament damage while dislocating his kneecap. This injury effectively ended his regular season, though there’s a slim chance he could return if the Steelers make the playoffs.
The #Steelers are currently without five of their top 10 offensive linemen
— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) September 30, 2024
Fautanu ❌ Jones ✅
Daniels ❌ Anderson ✅
Frazier ✅ Herbig ❌
Seumalo ❌ McCormick ✅
Moore ✅ Cook ❌ https://t.co/xXLwpVERht
Recap of Steelers o-line injuries:
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) September 30, 2024
-Nate Herbig: Torn rotator cuff (out for year)
-Troy Fautanu: Dislocated kneecap (out for regular season)
-Isaac Seumalo: Strained pec (missed 1st month)
-Dylan Cook: Foot inj (IR, missed 1st month)
-James Daniels: Torn Achilles (out for year)
More Pain in Week 4
The most significant blow to the Steelers’ offensive line came in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts. Starting right guard James Daniels tore his Achilles tendon on the team’s first possession, forcing him out for the remainder of the 2024 season. Daniels had started 36 consecutive games and consistently grading as their top offensive lineman. Rookie Mason McCormick, who had been rotating with Spencer Anderson at left guard, is expected to take over at right guard. Anderson will likely start at left guard if Seumalo is not ready to return.
To address the depleted depth, the Steelers signed veteran lineman Max Scharping off the Washington Commanders’ practice squad. Scharping’s versatility and experience across multiple positions could prove valuable as the team navigates its injury crisis. The cumulative effect of these injuries has left the Steelers without five of their top offensive linemen. The unit now faces the daunting task of starting two rookies, two second-year players, and Dan Moore Jr., leaving fans uneasy. As they look ahead, they hope for Seumalo’s return to provide a much-needed boost to the struggling offensive line.
Schematic Changes
To address the challenges posed by the depleted offensive line, the coaching staff will have to make schematic adjustments. One goal has to be minimizing the number of pass protection reps for the offensive line. Staying in front of the chains on first and second down to stay in favorable positions. This involves keeping their more run-first approach but incorporating more play-action passes and RPOs (run-pass options) when not getting a push up front.
They may have to utilize heavier personnel packages and incorporating creative ways to provide help for offensive tackles in pass protection. For example, they are implementing purposeful jet motion and other tactics to keep defenses off-balance and reduce pressure on the offensive line. Fitting Arthur Smith’s scheme will be the increased use of multiple tight end sets. Leveraging the talents of players like Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington to provide additional blocking support and while also getting in the mix in the pass game.
Spencer Anderson on the depth on the Steelers offensive line being tested pic.twitter.com/JJfABxpOHP
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) September 23, 2024
Finding Ways to Win
The Steelers’ offensive line faces a tough road ahead. Injuries have forced rookies and inexperienced players into key roles. This situation applies pressure but nothing Mike Tomlin isn’t used to. The team’s ability to find ways to win despite this unit will shape their season. The staff’s focus on player development and scheme adjustments will show how they earn a living. In the end, the growth of young linemen will be a story of the Steelers’ offensive success this year.
Leave A Comment