The Pittsburgh Steelers have been hit hard by a series of unfortunate injuries along their offensive line. During their Week 4 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, they suffered a major blow when James Daniels went down with a season-ending Achilles tear. His absence leaves a significant gap in the offensive front.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Steelers' James Daniels run out of the tunnel before a preseason game wearing a Guardian Cap.
Even before losing Daniels, the Steelers had already faced a tough setback with rookie starting right tackle Troy Fautanu being ruled out for the year. In addition, Nate Herbig also sustained an injury, adding to the growing list of linemen sidelined for the season. Perhaps the biggest concern for the Steelers is Isaac Seumalo, their most important piece on the offensive line, who has missed every game so far. Steeler Nation is anxiously awaiting his return, and getting him back in time for Week 5 would be a massive boost for a unit dealing with mounting adversity.
In response to the injuries, the Steelers have looked outside the organization for reinforcements. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Pittsburgh is expected to sign veteran guard Max Scharping from the Washington Commanders' practice squad. Scharping brings experience and depth to an offensive line that desperately needs stability as the team fights through a rough patch in the season.
#Steelers are likely to sign veteran guard Max Scharping off the #Commanders practice squad, per sources.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 1, 2024
Pittsburgh is decimated by injuries and Scharping has starter's experience.
Scharping, a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, brings valuable experience to the table. The former Northern Illinois standout has been in the league for six seasons and currently sits on the Commanders' practice squad. Before his stint in Washington, Scharping racked up 33 NFL starts, proving himself as a capable offensive lineman.
AP Photo / David J. Phillip
Max Scharping during his time with the Texans.
As reported by Fowler, the Steelers are likely to sign him from the Commanders' practice squad. If this deal goes through, it will offer Pittsburgh some much-needed reinforcements at guard, adding veteran experience from a player eager to prove he deserves a spot on an active roster.
Steelers' Offensive Line Dealing With A Plethora Of Adversity
The Steelers' offensive line was expected to take a big step forward in the 2024 season. While there were promising signs early on, injuries have derailed the unit’s progress, making it difficult for the line to fully gel.
With key players going down, staying healthy has become a top priority for Pittsburgh. If the line can stabilize, recover, and build chemistry, the Steelers will be in a much stronger position moving forward.
Steelers.com
Steelers' offensive line against the Falcons in Week 1 of 2024.
Given the recent rash of injuries, it was inevitable that the team would need to make a move to bolster the offensive line. The anticipated signing of Scharping could provide the depth and stability the Steelers desperately need. There’s hope that this addition will shore up the guard position and offer crucial support for a line battling through adversity.
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