Steelers' Spencer Anderson Gets Backed By A Confident Broderick Jones Ahead Of Starting Role In Week 1 Vs. Falcons

The Pittsburgh Steelers have greatly upgraded their offensive line during the past two offseasons. That includes drafting two new tackles in Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, along with center Zach Frazier and guards Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson. They join veterans Isaac Seumalo, James Daniels, and Dan Moore Jr. In addition to all the new players, the Steelers hired Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith. 

These changes bring a sense of anticipation for the Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Part of that is because of worry about this new offensive line. Fautanu and Seumalo suffered injuries during the last few weeks that will likely keep them out of the game on Sunday. Fautanu's injury means that Moore will continue to play at left tackle, while Jones is forced to stay on the right side.

Seumalo's injury sparked talk in the media about whether Anderson or McCormick would start in place of the former Super Bowl winner. When the first official depth chart came out, it had Anderson backing up Seumalo. Anderson has played nearly every position on the offensive line, and that versatility is part of what the coaches love about him. 

After a recent practice, several players spoke to the media, and Jones sang Anderson's praises. Jones was asked about his draft mate and his impact on the line. 

"I feel like Spencer has taken a great jump from year one to year two," said Jones. "So I'm excited to see what he puts on, what he's able to do for us. Love him. He's a good dude to be around. Just glad he's getting this opportunity to showcase what he can do."

Anderson, who played for the University of Maryland, has used his versatility to his advantage. Of course, the one position he didn't play at Maryland was left guard, but during training camp, the coaches specifically worked him out at every spot on the line. When you are a seventh-round pick and want to make the roster, you say yes to everything.

According to Jones, Anderson's and all of the linemen's willingness is part of what will make them even better. He said that training camp allowed them to come together and forge a bond. While you never want a player, especially one of Seumalo's caliber, out with an injury, he is confident in his teammates. 

"We got a chance to bond with one another, push each other. See what limits everybody has. I feel like we've got a strong offensive line. Everybody's strong-minded, everybody's willing to learn, everybody's willing to put their best foot forward. As long as you're coachable, you can play this game. I feel like we'll be alright. They're really looking at us and leaning on us to be able to step up and take charge and go out there and do what we've been doing for so long."

The Falcons likely already feel that they have a leg up on the Steelers, considering Smith used to be their head coach and was responsible for play-calling. Smith is likely seeing this as a redemption tour and will be eager to prove himself against his old team. 

Steelers Not Worried About Lack Of Familiarity With The Falcons

While the Falcons might feel confident against the Steelers' offense, the Pittsburgh defense can't quite say the same thing. The Falcons have a new offensive coordinator in Zac Robinson and a new, but veteran quarterback, in Kirk Cousins. The Steelers are familiar with Cousins, whom they have played twice before—once when he was with the Washington Redskins and once with the Minnesota Vikings. The series is tied at 1-1. 

Steelers defenders Alex Highsmith and Joey Porter Jr. said they aren't worried about never seeing Cousins play in Atlanta. They feel like they can piece together enough film of the players to be successful. In addition, Robinson was previously the pass game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. The Steelers played and beat the Rams in 2023. They both said the key to success is for the defense to hit hard and fast, and be consistent. 

How do you think Anderson will do filling in for Seumalo? Click to comment below. 

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