PITTSBURGH — Steelers center Nate Herbig is anticipated to be out for an extended period due to a torn rotator cuff, according to a source. This development opens the door for rookie center Zach Frazier to take over the starting role.
Herbig had been working primarily at center with the first-team offensive line during training camp before sustaining the injury last week. Head Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Herbig’s injury after the Steelers’ preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday, mentioning that Herbig, 26, was in the process of seeking a second opinion.
Frazier, who played at West Virginia in college, was drafted in the second round in April and stepped in for Herbig against the Bills.
“Nate’s got an injury that’s being continually evaluated,” Tomlin stated when discussing Herbig’s condition after the game. “I think he’s getting a second opinion. I want to wait for that. I’ll provide you guys with more information the next time we meet, but I was generally pleased with Zach’s performance.”
Although Frazier was initially brought in to eventually become the starting center, Herbig’s injury, coupled with his previous experience as an active player in all 17 games last season and his role as a key reserve, significantly weakens the team’s interior depth.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette was the first to report on Herbig’s injury.
In light of Herbig’s situation, seventh-round draft pick Spencer Anderson and fourth-round pick Mason McCormick are the leading contenders to bolster the interior line alongside Frazier and guards Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels.
Frazier participated in one series with quarterback Justin Fields in the Steelers’ preseason opener after a couple of fumbled snaps between Herbig and Fields. Frazier, who started 37 consecutive games at center during his college tenure, received positive feedback from coaches and teammates in training camp for his diligence and toughness.
“Zach’s a hard worker,” Fields remarked. “He’s humble, doesn’t say much, but boy, he works. I’m really glad to have him on the o-line, and he’s incredibly strong.
“He’s also quite intelligent, so it’s impressive to see a rookie of his age managing the protections effectively. I’ll suggest a protection change, and often he’s already done it before I even mention it. That kind of awareness is definitely a great sign for someone so young.”