The Pittsburgh Steelers faced significant challenges at the center position during the 2023 season. Mason Cole, who was expected to solidify the offensive line as the starter, struggled to meet expectations. His performance was inconsistent, contributing to the team’s overall difficulties in protecting the quarterback and establishing a smooth offense. Recognizing the need for improvement, the Steelers released Cole after the season, making it clear they were in search of a new starting center to anchor the offensive line.
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Steelers' Zach Frazier (54) talks with Nate Herbig (71) during training camp in 2024.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers seized the opportunity to address this need by selecting Zach Frazier in the second round. Frazier, a highly touted prospect, was seen as a potential long-term solution at center. Initially, he was set to compete with Nate Herbig for the starting job, a battle that promised to be one of the more intriguing storylines of the Steelers' offseason. However, Herbig suffered a season-ending injury, leaving Frazier as the clear frontrunner for the starting role.
With Frazier now poised to take on the responsibilities of starting center, Ryan McCollum has been listed as his backup. McCollum was chosen for this role due to his relative experience compared to other available options, although his own professional experience is somewhat limited. Despite this, the Steelers coaching staff believes McCollum can provide reliable support if needed.
Steelers fans are eagerly anticipating Frazier's regular season debut, hopeful that he can step in and immediately contribute to improving the offensive line. There is a strong belief that Frazier has the talent and work ethic to have a standout rookie season. However, if Frazier faces any challenges or falters in his new role, McCollum will be the next man up, ready to step in and stabilize the position. The Steelers' success in the 2024 season could hinge on how well Frazier adapts to the NFL and how effectively the team manages the center position moving forward.
If the Steelers aren't entirely confident in McCollum as the backup, they now have a new option. On Tuesday, six-year NFL veteran Will Clapp was released by the Buffalo Bills. While Clapp isn't the only option available—plenty of former starters are out there if Pittsburgh wants a more reliable backup behind Frazier—he could be a sensible choice for the team.
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Former Chargers center Will Clapp gets ready to snap the football during an away game against the Raiders.
Although Clapp doesn’t have extensive starting experience, he could be a cost-effective addition for Pittsburgh, as he would likely come at the veteran minimum. He also has a lot more experience playing center. The Steelers have set their initial 53-man roster, but will still be building out their practice squad, and the roster is likely to remain fluid as more moves are made.
Clapp started 11 games for the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2023 season, though he was playing as a guard rather than at center. Clapp got hurt in Week 15 which ended his season. His natural position is center, and he has been a dependable backup in the league since 2018. The Steelers appear confident in Frazier’s ability to step in as a rookie starter, and while he’s expected to perform reliably, there may still be some growing pains.
Steelers Are Taking A Risky Approach At Center
The Steelers might benefit from having a more experienced veteran behind Frazier. With McCollum’s limited experience and Frazier entering his rookie season without real competition behind him, there are reasons for concern. Clapp could be a logical choice for this role. Although Clapp earned a low Pro Football Focus grade of 56.7 in 2023 while playing as a guard, he allowed just one sack and committed only one penalty.
The Steelers’ approach carries significant risk, not necessarily because of Frazier, but because they are just one injury away from being in a precarious position at center.
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Steelers' Ryan McCollum gets ready to snap the football.
McCollum, who started one game for the Detroit Lions in 2021, has since bounced around the Steelers’ practice squad and has been released in each of the last two seasons. Now, he faces a major opportunity if the Steelers decide not to bring in additional help. McCollum must be ready to step up if Frazier struggles during the 2024 season.
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