The Pittsburgh Steelers are trying to prepare their offensive line for the foreseeable future. Even though they already have three young linemen expected to start in 2024, they are making preparations in case they lose at least one guard in the offseason. James Daniels is set to be a free agent, as well as Nate Herbig in 2025. The team drafted Mason McCormick in the fourth round in 2024 to either help solidify the guard depth or eventually become a starter, but they have more options.
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Steelers' Spencer Anderson prepares to block in a 2023 preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.
In 2023, Spencer Anderson was drafted as a lineman that can slot anywhere if needed. He seemed to be in competition with Dan Moore Jr. for the last offensive tackle spot, but that is not the case now. Anderson will no longer be used as a multi-tool. He talked about his new position with reporter Chris Adamski.
"I've been specializing in guard this entire camp. Coach [Tomlin] just told me that, and this entire spring, they've had me at guard. That will transfer over, obviously, to Latrobe, I would imagine... It definitely shows that they kind of want you to focus on one thing, so, obviously, in your head, you were kind of thinking to be a guard, and so I strive to be the best guard I can be and best guard for the team."
Anderson also mentioned that he could still be used at any offensive line position if needed, but for now, he is expected to play out the 2024 season as a backup guard. He will most likely compete with Herbig and McCormick to see where he lands on the depth chart exactly.
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' 2023 seventh round pick, Spencer Anderson fires off the snap at Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
In 2023, the Steelers kept nine offensive linemen on the team after cutting down the roster from 90 men to 53 men, as opposed to the usual eight. If the Steelers roll with nine linemen again, Anderson may only end up competing with Dylan Cook for that last spot. Herbig's job may be safe due to him being the primary backup center behind the rookie, Zach Frazier.
As Adamski mentions, Mike Tomlin usually prefers to have players that can move around and play multiple positions, so it is somewhat uncharacteristic to see him want to lock a very versatile player into a role with less flexibility. Even though Anderson may not have a major role in 2024, the Steelers could be setting him up to get some playing time down the road.
Steelers Are Preparing Their Future Starting Guards
With Daniels and Herbig potentially walking in free agency after the 2024 season, the door for Anderson and McCormick to compete for that starting job will be wide open. Anderson will be using 2024 to try and win a camp competition in 2025. He will get a year to train and develop alongside McCormick before they go head-to-head.
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Steelers' Mason McCormick at the first day of 2024 rookie minicamp.
Even if Anderson loses the battle to McCormick in 2025, he can still be the primary backup to both him and Isaac Seumalo. Of course, there is still the option that the Steelers sign a guard in free agency in 2025 as well, but in case the team can't snag another efficient one, it makes sense to keep their options open. Even if Anderson just develops into a quality backup, that is still great value for a seventh-round pick.
Plans could always change. Anderson may go back to being a Swiss army knife in 2025. Maybe he becomes more of a need as a backup center or swing tackle. Either way, as long as he develops, the Steelers will have a role ready for him.
What do you think about the Steelers having Spencer Anderson play guard full-time? Will he eventually get to start there? Let us know in the comments.
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