Steelers’ Zach Frazier Won't Be Running With The First-Team In Near Future: "Not Anytime Soon"

The Pittsburgh Steelers released center Mason Cole after a disappointing 2023 season. His struggles led the team to draft center Zach Frazier from West Virginia University in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Frazier arrives in Pittsburgh with high expectations, as he was a dominant force in college. Steelers fans are optimistic about his potential for a smooth transition to the NFL. During training camp, Frazier has been working with the second team, while veteran center Nate Herbig has taken the starting reps.

There is plenty of speculation among fans and analysts about whether Frazier will be the starting center in Week 1 or if the Steelers will take a cautious approach, similar to their handling of offensive tackle Broderick Jones in 2023. Jones didn't start immediately, but was gradually integrated into the lineup. Steelers insider Gerry Dulac reported in his weekly chat that Frazier is unlikely to become the starting center when the season begins.

“At some point, Zach Frazier will be the starting center. But not anytime soon," Dulac wrote. "They need to see more of him in pads and in games.”

Dulac believes the team will gradually ease Frazier into the lineup, rather than starting him immediately. Now that the Steelers have begun practicing in pads at training camp, they will have a better opportunity to evaluate Frazier's readiness for the NFL. Frazier is expected to be in a heated competition with Herbig for the starting center position.

Herbig, a seasoned veteran, has reportedly performed well at center during camp. He has five years of NFL experience, having begun his career with three seasons on the Philadelphia Eagles, followed by a year with the New York Jets before joining the Steelers in 2023. Although Herbig has 30 career starts, all have been at guard, and he has yet to start at center. However, he does have experience playing the position.

The most likely scenario is that Pittsburgh will start the season with Herbig at center, allowing Frazier to develop and gain confidence before taking on a starting role. The Steelers are cautious about rushing Frazier into the lineup, as they want to ensure he is fully prepared for the challenges of the NFL. Transitioning from college to professional football is always demanding, and the team is mindful of not overwhelming Frazier too soon.

Despite the cautious approach, several analysts believe Frazier has the talent to start from day one. His dominant college career and potential make him a promising prospect for the Steelers' future. As the preseason progresses, Pittsburgh will closely monitor Frazier's development, aiming to set him up for long-term success.

Steelers' Zach Frazier Is A Team-First Player

There was considerable excitement surrounding the Steelers' decision to select Frazier in the draft. His time in Morgantown showcased the type of player Pittsburgh was acquiring, especially highlighted by one memorable play. During a challenging away game against Baylor, played in miserable weather, the Mountaineers were struggling and seemed poised to lose. However, as they prepared for a potential game-winning drive, Frazier demonstrated his commitment and resilience.

While leading blocks for his teammates, Frazier's legs got tangled with an opposing player, resulting in a painful leg injury. Despite the severe pain, Frazier realized that staying on the field would trigger a clock runoff, significantly reducing his team's chances of winning. Determined to keep the Mountaineers' hopes alive, he bear-crawled off the field, preventing the runoff and giving his team the opportunity to complete the drive.

Thanks to Frazier's heroics, the Mountaineers were able to finish the drive and secure the win. Without his selfless actions, they likely would have lost. This incident exemplifies the kind of player the Steelers have in Frazier—tough, dedicated, and willing to do whatever it takes for his team. He is expected to quickly become a fan favorite and a key player in Pittsburgh.

However, Dulac believes it will take some time for Frazier to become the starter. The team is likely to ease him into the role, allowing him to develop at his own pace while ensuring he's fully prepared for the challenges of the NFL.

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