Steelers rookie suddenly thrust into starting role following: 'Significant injury' to veteran

The Pittsburgh Steelers spent a ton of draft capital along the offensive line this offseason.

Looking to build for the future, the plan was to work the rookies in slowly, something Pittsburgh often does.

But following the latest report at the center position, rookie center Zach Frazier is now thrust into a starting role, starting as soon as Saturday against the Buffalo Bills.

C Nate Herbig to miss significant time

"The door is not only opening, Zach Frazier's gonna be shutting it very quickly, reported Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette on DVE .  "Nate Herbig, not only not going to play tonight, he's not going to play for a long period of time. Just before we went on the air, I was told that he has a significant shoulder injury that's gonna keep him out for an extended period...

"...And even though he was on the fast track anyhow, that certainly cements Zach Frazier into that role as a starting center, not only tonight, but for the regular season in Atlanta....

"...And let's face it, once that happens, it's just, they're going full bore straight ahead, and that's where they are with Zach Frazier. He's been very impressive. He looked very good last week, and it was only going to be a matter of time. He probably would've been there in the starting lineup in Atlanta, but that has been cemented now."

Frazier had a strong debut last week, something that couldn't be said for Herbig's first start at center.

Even still, Herbig maintained his first team positioning all week before injuring his shoulder late on Wednesday, leading us to the current situation.

The onus is now on Frazier, who will make his first start on Saturday night.