The Pittsburgh Steelers have made significant moves this offseason, earning praise for their strategic decisions. In addition to these moves, they have been lauded for their successful drafting in the 2024 NFL Draft. In the first round, the Steelers selected offensive tackle Troy Fautanu, followed by center Zach Frazier from West Virginia in the second round.
Karl Roser / Steelers
Steelers' Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu work on blocking drills during Organized Team Activities (OTAs).
There is considerable excitement surrounding the Steelers' revamped offensive line, with the rookies expected to play substantial roles. As training camp continues in Latrobe, Steelers fans are closely observing every development. One notable observation is that Mason McCormick, the team's fourth-round draft pick, was the first rookie lineman to receive first-team reps.
.@steelers 📞 @MasonLMcCormick #GoJacks x #NFLJacks 🐰🏈 pic.twitter.com/06CTFPVU0W
— SDSU Football (@GoJacksFB) April 27, 2024
McCormick, considered a high-value pick despite playing at a smaller school, caught the attention of many, including Steelers pundit Chris Adamski. He was surprised to see McCormick being the first rookie lineman to get first-team reps at camp.
Mason McCormick getting 1st-team reps for the 1st time
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) July 27, 2024
Anyone on their bingo card have him over Fautanu and Frazier as the rookie to get the 1st shot with the 1s
(Yes this is in part because of Seumalo sitting out; but McCormick rotated in ahead of Spencer Anderson for a set)
Everything Steelers fans have heard about McCormick has been exciting for Steeler Nation. McCormick had the opportunity to transfer from South Dakota State, where he played for the Jackrabbits, to a larger school via the transfer portal, but he chose to stay loyal. This decision reflects McCormick's character, as he prioritized loyalty to the team that helped develop him over the financial incentives offered by larger programs.
Justin Tafoya / NCAA Photos via Getty Images
Mason McCormick during his collegiate time with the South Dakota State Jackrabbits.
Adamski was surprised to see McCormick getting first-team reps, as the focus was expected to be on fellow rookies Fautanu and Frazier. However, Fautanu and Frazier have not yet received first-team reps in training camp, while McCormick has. Adamski noted that veteran Isaac Seumalo sat out of practice, which provided McCormick with the opportunity to step up and get work with the starters.
The Steelers' offense has struggled recently, prompting significant personnel changes at quarterback and offensive coordinator. The team acquired quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, exciting fans eager for improved quarterback play. They also brought in Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, who aims to return the Steelers to a more physical style of football, starting with a stronger offensive line.
Steelers' Mason McCormick Getting Work With The Starters In Camp
For the Steelers' offense to improve in 2024, the offensive line must step up. With a mix of young talent and veterans, the line's development will be crucial. While McCormick received first-team reps during practice, it's unlikely he'll start in his rookie season. However, his involvement with the first-team is a positive sign for both him and Steelers fans.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Broderick Jones gets ready to block the Seattle Seahawks defense during a game.
Seumalo likely sat out practice for rest, as he's a key leader of the offensive line. The Steelers are confident in what they have with Broderick Jones, a first-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, who eventually became a starter during his rookie year. They may adopt a similar approach with Frazier and Fautanu, bringing them along gradually.
The Steelers offensive line is a young unit bursting with potential. They have a lot of promising prospects who will be able to grow together. The future of that unit looks special.
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