Steelers' Zach Frazier On The Hot Seat Heading Into Intense Training Camp Battle

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted center Zach Frazier in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, which was seen as a major win for the organization. Frazier is expected to become the focal point of the Steelers' offensive line for the next decade. Frazier has generated a lot of excitement for Steelers fans this offseason.

Although it may seem unfair to put Frazier on the hot seat heading into training camp, Joe Rutter of Trib Live recently highlighted five Steelers players under the most pressure, and Frazier made the list. However, this is not due to any major concerns. Frazier is expected to start at some point during the 2024 season, with the only question being when.

During offseason workouts, Nate Herbig took first-team reps. The general consensus is that Frazier will be a starter by the beginning of the season. Rutter believes this is why Frazier's seat is one of the hottest heading into camp.

“It’s probably unfair to put a rookie on a 'hot seat' list, particularly if the rookie in question is not a first-round draft pick," Rutter wrote.

Rutter acknowledged that it's not entirely fair to include Frazier on this list. However, the implications for Frazier are significant, which is why he earned a spot. 

Frazier joins the Steelers following a season of subpar center play from Mason Cole, who was released after the 2023 season. Rutter expects Frazier to be thrown into the starting role as a rookie, which is why he faces so much pressure heading into camp.

“Frazier, though, could be thrust into a starting role in the middle of the offensive line," Rutter wrote. "The Steelers used the No. 51 overall pick to select the former West Virginia center in the second round.”

Herbig took first-team snaps during the offseason voluntary workouts. With five seasons of NFL experience under his belt, he has started 30 games in his career. Last season was Herbig's first year with the Steelers, where he made just two starts.

“Veteran Nate Herbig took the first-team snaps in offseason workouts, but he could be merely keeping the seat warm for Frazier," Rutter wrote. "His development in training camp and how quickly he is ready to handle the intellectual component of the position will determine whether he opens the season as the starting center.”

It's quite possible that Herbig could seriously challenge for the starting job. The Steelers drafted Frazier with high expectations, envisioning him as the future of the center position in Pittsburgh. With a storied history of great centers, Frazier has the potential to be the next standout.

There is a realistic chance the Steelers might want to ease Frazier into the starting role. As a rookie, he will need to transition from Big 12 play to the NFL, and despite glowing scouting reports, the pro game can be a significant adjustment. Rookies often take time to acclimate.

Steelers' Center Position To Feature Intense Battles During Training Camp

The Steelers might opt to give Herbig a chance while allowing Frazier to get comfortable. However, it’s also very likely that Frazier could start at the beginning of the season. 

The center position will be closely watched during training camp, and Frazier has the ability to step in and start as a rookie. The competition between Herbig and Frazier will be a key focus throughout camp, and it will be interesting to see if Frazier is given the starting role for Week 1.

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