PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a significant setback as center Nate Herbig is expected to be out for an extended period due to a torn rotator cuff, as confirmed by a source. This injury has led to the promotion of rookie center Zach Frazier to the starting role.
Herbig, who primarily operated as a center with the first-team during training camp, sustained the injury last week. Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the issue following the Steelers’ preseason defeat to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night, mentioning that Herbig was seeking a second opinion on his condition.
“Nate’s got an injury that’s being continually evaluated,” Tomlin stated when questioned about Herbig after the game. “I think he’s getting a second opinion. I want to wait on that. I’ll provide more information next time we meet, but I was largely satisfied with the performance I saw from Zach.”
Frazier, who played at West Virginia and was drafted in the second round of this year’s draft, stepped in for Herbig during the game against the Bills. Although Frazier was intended to eventually take over as the starting center, Herbig’s injury creates a notable gap in the Steelers’ depth along the offensive line. Herbig was a key reserve last season and was expected to continue in a similar capacity this year.
With Herbig sidelined, seventh-round pick Spencer Anderson and fourth-round pick Mason McCormick are the most likely candidates to provide additional support behind Frazier and starting guards Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels.
Frazier participated in one series with quarterback Justin Fields during the team’s first preseason game, stepping in after snap exchanges went awry between Herbig and Fields in the initial plays. Throughout training camp, Frazier earned praise from coaches and teammates alike for his strong work ethic and physical play.
“Zach’s a hard worker,” Fields said. “He’s humble, doesn’t say much, but he works extremely hard. I’m glad to have him on the offensive line. He’s a strong guy.
“He’s also smart, which is impressive for a rookie. He has a great sense of where protections are going. Often, he anticipates my adjustments before I can even make them.”