The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line has been severely impacted by injuries this season. During their Week 4 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the Steelers lost James Daniels, who tore his Achilles and will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 season. This setback follows a series of unfortunate events, starting with Nate Herbig suffering a season-ending injury in the preseason, and rookie starting right tackle Troy Fautanu also expected to miss the entire season due to injury.
AP
Steelers' 2024 first round pick, Troy Fautanu gets introduced as a member of the team by Art Rooney II.
Adding to the challenge, the Steelers' best offensive lineman, Isaac Seumalo, has yet to take the field. His return is crucial and anticipated soon, as his presence would significantly bolster the offensive line. In response to these injuries, Pittsburgh has signed veteran guard Max Scharping off the Washington Commanders' practice squad.
Scharping addressed the media on Wednesday, sharing his excitement about joining the Steelers. While he played guard for the Commanders, he highlighted his versatility, noting that he has experience at all five positions on the offensive line. This adaptability is likely a key reason the Steelers were eager to bring him onto the team.
"I think as of this preseason, I have now played every position on the offensive line. So wherever they need me to fill in, I’m gonna do my best to do that. I’ve played more interior line so we will see what they want me to do."
Scharping was selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft after an impressive college career at Northern Illinois, which helped him secure strong draft positioning.
With five seasons of NFL experience under his belt, Scharping brings valuable starting and veteran knowledge to the Steelers. Throughout his career, he has started 33 games, showcasing his capability on the field.
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Max Scharping blocking during his college days at NIU.
The Steelers' offensive line is in urgent need of assistance, particularly after injuries significantly impacted their performance during the first half against the Colts. The team also struggled to establish a running game against Indianapolis.
Currently, Dan Moore Jr. is starting at left tackle, Broderick Jones at right tackle, and Zach Frazier at center. With Daniels out due to injury, it appears Mason McCormick will step in as the starting right guard. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has even suggested the possibility of rotating guards to address the ongoing challenges.
If the Steelers can get Seumalo back, he would undoubtedly start at left guard. His return would be crucial for the home game against the Dallas Cowboys, but his availability remains uncertain, as he is currently listed as questionable. If Seumalo is unable to play, Spencer Anderson may step in at left guard.
Steelers' Max Scharping Has A Great Opportunity In Pittsburgh
With Daniels' injury, Scharping is now listed as the second-string right guard, following McCormick on the depth chart. Scharping's experience and versatility allow him to line up wherever the team needs him. It will be interesting to see if the Steelers decide to plug him in, potentially replacing a starter.
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Offensive lineman Max Scharping during his time with the Houston Texans.
As Scharping grows more comfortable and builds chemistry with the offensive line, he could play a significant role moving forward. The Steelers value his versatility, making it a valuable asset for the team. Although he hasn't had much recent success in his career, Scharping will be eager to turn things around in Pittsburgh.
There are many questions surrounding Scharping’s role with the Steelers. The injuries on the offensive line have opened up opportunities for him, and his ability to play all five positions offers valuable flexibility. His versatility provides reassurance, as he can serve as a swing tackle when needed or play on either side at guard.
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