Participant: C Zach Frazier
Inventory Worth: Up
Reasoning: Getting into his second season, C Zach Frazier seems to be taking the subsequent steps in his sport. That features him taking up extra of a management function. To a sure diploma, the middle place carries with it an inherent management side. Whereas there isn’t a lot for linemen to point out throughout OTAs, he has drawn reward for his development on this space.
The Steelers could have discovered their subsequent nice heart in Zach Frazier, and this is perhaps the yr to inform. Whereas he already performed effectively as a rookie, he has an opportunity to take a serious step ahead in 2025. All gamers ought to see development after their rookie season, however the offense can also be rising round him.
Though he has the well-seasoned veteran Isaac Seumalo to his left, Frazier additionally has Mason McCormick to his proper. The Steelers drafted Frazier and McCormick simply final yr, and McCormick wasn’t supposed to begin. You typically don’t need two gamers subsequent to one another who’re simply studying the ropes, for apparent causes.
The Steelers didn’t have a lot alternative final yr, however it might repay this yr. May Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick mix to make a long-term duo in the midst of the Steelers’ offensive line? That was their ambition after they drafted them, and it’s not trying far-fetched.
Notably, Frazier, who isn’t essentially the most vocal man on the earth, appears to be taking up extra of a management function. Whether or not that’s natural or simply an extension of his love for the sport, it doesn’t actually matter. The actual fact is he’s stepping up, which ought to enhance a number of areas.
We’ve seen a number of teammates and coaches reward Zach Frazier this offseason. Mason Rudolph mentioned he seemed like a “mature veteran” regardless of solely going into his second season. OL coach Pat Meyer sees him “directing” the Steelers’ offensive line, creating into a pacesetter. Though we’d like to see him in pads sooner slightly than later, that is good to see in June.
With the brand new league yr underway and the Steelers turning their roster over, it’s as soon as once more time to “take inventory”. It took some time, however we lastly noticed a few of that change the workforce talked about after the season ended. Definitely, the transfer to commerce for WR DK Metcalf qualifies as a change, to not point out the accompanying contract.
There’s nonetheless a protracted solution to go earlier than we all know what this Steelers workforce goes to appear like. The mud is settled on each free company and the 2025 NFL Draft. What different strikes may the workforce make, maybe sudden acquisitions or departures? In the event that they traded for one participant, they may actually commerce for one more, or commerce one away. It is a Steelers workforce ravenous for postseason success, however how determined are they for a playoff win in 2025?
