Steelers high on rookie O-linemen: 'Exactly who we thought they were'

The Steelers invested three of their first five picks in the 2024 NFL Draft on offensive linemen and they believe they are already reaping the benefits.

On Monday, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith praised first-round offensive tackle Troy Fautanu, second-round center Zach Frazier and fourth-round guard Mason McCormick following their preseason debuts.

"All three of those rookies, the lights weren't too big for them," Smith said . "It wasn't perfect, but they played well, exactly who we thought they were when we drafted them. It was good to see."

While all three rookies played well in their first action, only two have a real shot at being Week 1 starters: Fautanu and Frazier. And according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Fautanu has already earned his spot, stating that he will be Pittsburgh's starting right tackle when he returns from his knee injury .

Smith was so impressed with Fautanu that he didn't even know he was hurt.

"I didn't even realize he had an injury because he kept playing and asked for a knee brace," Smith added. "Thankfully, he'll be alright, but that shows who he really is when you get into those moments."

Frazier, on the other hand, must still beat out veteran Nate Herbig, who is earning most of the first-team reps, but Frazier is narrowing the gap with his impressive play and Herbig's miscues.

During Friday's game, the Steelers fumbled two snaps when Herbig was at center. Head coach Mike Tomlin said that's unacceptable play.

"I cannot remove that fundamental component of the eval," Tomlin said . "We've got to be 1,000 percent on C-Q exchange. That's just the standard for professional ball."

Frazier is earning more and more first-team reps in practice, but that isn't the only factor Pittsburgh is considering.

"Sometimes it's not just about Zach. We've got good depth in that O-line room. I think Zach's had a terrific camp," Smith finished . "It'll all play itself out."

Only time will tell, but if Frazier continues stacking good performances, he may also earn a starting job along the Steelers' new-look offensive line before the start of the regular season.

All quotations obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted