The Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of reasons to be excited for the 2024 season, particularly due to their young offensive linemen. In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Steelers traded up to select Broderick Jones. Building on that momentum, they drafted three more trench players in the 2024 NFL Draft.
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Steelers' Broderick Jones takes a photo with his Pittsburgh football jersey after being selected by the team.
In the first round of the 2024 draft, the Steelers secured great value by selecting Troy Fautanu. They then addressed their need at center by picking Zach Frazier in the second round. In the fourth round, they found an under-the-radar guard, Mason McCormick. While all three players are exciting prospects, the two to watch for the 2024 season are Fautanu and Frazier.
Many pundits have debated when these rookies will find themselves in the starting lineup. In 2023, the Steelers took their time integrating Jones into the starting lineup, and they might take a similar approach with their rookies this year.
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin discussed his excitement about the team's prospects in an interview with Kay Adams before training camp on Saturday. When asked which group he’s most enthusiastic about heading into 2024, Tomlin highlighted the offensive line.
“You know I like the offensive line," Tomlin said. "We have invested a lot in the offensive line. In recent years via the draft. They are young guys but they are talented. They are going to have to grow up and grow up quickly. I just love being part of that process with that group.”
The Steelers have made a significant investment in their young linemen, emphasizing the importance of their development. Tomlin is focused on ensuring these players mature quickly to make an impact this season. With this talented group, the Steelers’ future looks promising, as they prepare to step up and protect their quarterback.
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Steelers offensive linemen Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier work out with the team.
Frazier is in a battle with Nate Herbig for the starting center position. It's likely that Herbig will hold the spot until Frazier is ready to take over. Fautanu has impressed during camp, playing hard and keeping his quarterback safe. Although McCormick was an under-the-radar pick in the draft, he has quickly excited Steelers fans. McCormick notably got into a camp scuffle protecting quarterback Justin Fields, with Fautanu reportedly involved as well.
While no one likes to see teammates fight, Tomlin acknowledged the incident and made it clear he disapproves of such behavior. However, the new energy and physicality from these young linemen are encouraging. The Steelers have lacked physicality recently, and these new prospects are already setting a positive tone.
Steelers Are Hopeful To Be Much More Physical On Offense In 2024
With new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, the Steelers’ offense is set to be very physical. To achieve this, they will need their offensive line to dominate in 2024. Tomlin understands the necessity of getting his young linemen ready to compete. If the offensive line lives up to expectations, it will likely be due to the performance of these young players.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith working in their first training camp together.
The Steelers have a lot of new faces this season, leaving the issues of 2023 far behind them. The hope is that with a dominant young offensive line, the Steelers will be able to punish defenses and establish a powerful running game. Steelers fans will be watching closely to see which rookies start in 2024 and how they impact the offensive line.
As the season approaches, the focus will be on how quickly these young linemen can develop and contribute. With a strong offensive line, the Steelers aim to make a significant impact, bringing excitement and anticipation to their fan base.
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