The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2024 season with renewed optimism, largely due to their overhauled offensive line designed to better protect their growing offensive weapons. Coming off a 10-7 season in 2023-24, where they placed third in the AFC North and fell short in the Wild Card Playoffs to the Buffalo Bills (17-31), the team knew changes were needed to remain competitive.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers offensive tackle Broderick Jones gets ready to block Buffalo Bills pass rusher Leonard Floyd during their 2023 AFC Wild Card matchup in Orchard Park, NY.
With five wins and two losses so far this season, the Steelers boast a win percentage of 71%, leaving betting fans hopeful that they can build on this momentum as the season progresses. The team's odds have improved to +4000, increasing confidence among sportsbooks. Fans eager to bet on Pittsburgh's potential can use offers like the Sleeper promo code to sweeten the deal.
In recent years, the Steelers' front office recognized that success in the NFL starts in the trenches. After several seasons marred by inconsistent performances and injury issues on the offensive line, the team made sweeping changes to solidify the unit. This offensive line overhaul aims to protect their quarterback, re-establish a dominant run game, and bring much-needed stability to a position group that has faced considerable adversity—even early in the 2024 season. The goal is clear: maintain a strong foundation and make a deep playoff run.
A New-Look Line
One of the biggest talking points in the Steelers' 2024 offseason was reshaping their offensive line. Key additions in the draft and free agency set the tone for a unit looking for a resurgence. First-round pick Troy Fautanu was expected to anchor the line as a starting tackle, while veteran Isaac Seumalo, who joined in 2023, steelernation.com/tag/mike-tomlinprovided leadership and stability at left guard.
Despite this promise, the line has been anything but stable during the early weeks of the 2024 season. Injuries have ravaged the starting unit, forcing Head Coach Mike Tomlin to rely on different combinations every game. Through seven games, the Steelers have already fielded multiple offensive line setups, a glaring reflection of their injury woes. Fautanu was lost to a season-ending injury early on, while key players like James Daniels and center Nate Herbig have also been sidelined.
These injuries have forced the Steelers to dig deep into their roster. Rookie Zach Frazier has taken on significant responsibility as a starting center. Initially viewed as a depth player, Spencer Anderson has been thrust into a starting role across multiple positions.
Kyle Hess / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Zach Frazier during his NFL debut against the Atlanta Falcons.
Early Season Struggles and Signs of Promise
The early results of the offensive line overhaul have been mixed. On the one hand, the Steelers' line showed flashes of potential in their Week 1 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. They allowed just six pressures and supported a robust 141-yard rushing performance. The second-year tackle, Broderick Jones, has been shaky at best, however. Overall, the joyous moments have often been overshadowed by inconsistency and an ongoing battle with injuries.
While the line graded well in pass protection against the Falcons, their run-blocking performance left much to be desired. Despite their success on the ground, Pro Football Focus ranked the Steelers' run-blocking unit near the bottom of the league after Week 1. The misalignment between statistical success and film evaluation highlights the inconsistency the line has struggled to overcome.
Even with these ups and downs, there have been individual standouts. Dan Moore Jr., who had struggled mightily in previous seasons, delivered a solid start to 2024, not allowing a single pressure in Week 1. Meanwhile, right guard Daniels has consistently been one of the line's highest-rated players, despite also dealing with injuries.
The Impact of New Offensive Leadership
The Steelers' decision to hire Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator has also significantly reshaped the offensive line’s responsibilities. Known for a run-heavy approach, Smith's philosophy puts added pressure on the line to create consistent running lanes.
Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren have become one of the most dynamic running back tandems in the league, but their success depends largely on the line’s ability to win at the line of scrimmage.
Associated Press
Steelers running back tandem of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.
Smith's emphasis on versatility and adaptability has been essential, as the line’s injuries have forced constant adjustments. Players like Mason McCormick, originally slated as a depth piece, have been moved across multiple positions to plug holes in the line.
Final Thoughts
As the Steelers continue their 2024 campaign, the health and performance of the offensive line remain major concerns. With 10 games left to play, it’s unlikely that the injuries are behind them. Despite these challenges, there’s optimism within the organization. Seumalo’s return is a positive sign, and there is hope that once the team settles into a consistent lineup, the line will start to gel and provide the stability Pittsburgh needs to make a playoff push.
Jones, in particular, holds the potential to become a cornerstone of the line for years to come, but must improve his play significantly. His early performances have shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency remains the goal as with the rest of the unit. The coaching staff is optimistic that players like Jones, Moore, and McCormick will continue to develop as the season progresses.
While the injuries have forced some unexpected moves and setbacks, Pittsburgh's investment in this unit is paying off, at least in terms of depth and long-term potential. By the end of the season, the Steelers hope this overhauled line will have found its footing, providing the protection and run-blocking they need to keep their playoff hopes alive.
