For the majority of their 27-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the Pittsburgh Steelers found themselves relying on a makeshift interior offensive line. After the sixth play, they were down to three players with zero prior NFL starts. This lack of experience is a concern moving forward, especially with veteran Isaac Seumalo still out with a pectoral strain. If Seumalo can’t return soon, the Steelers will continue to face challenges as they prepare to take on the Dallas Cowboys at Acrisure Stadium.
The Steelers’ offensive line has been plagued by injuries, the latest being James Daniels, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury early in the game. This injury follows a string of bad luck for the Steelers’ line, particularly at positions between the tackles. Spencer Anderson, a former seventh-round pick, stepped into an unfamiliar right guard position after Daniels’ departure. Anderson recognizes the steep learning curve ahead, noting, “We’ve got to grow up fast and be ready when our number is called.”
Despite the devastating news about Daniels’ injury, which the team already anticipated before the game ended, Anderson and his teammates knew they had to press on. “It’s next man up,” Anderson stated, emphasizing the need to move forward despite the setbacks. With Seumalo still not practicing in 11-on-11 drills, the interior line now consists of Anderson and two rookies, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. McCormick, who made his starting debut in Indianapolis, shifted to left guard while Anderson filled in at right guard.
Daniels’ injury marks the third season-ending loss for the Steelers’ offensive line. Rookie right tackle Troy Fautanu was sidelined after just one start, and Nate Herbig was lost in training camp. Only Dan Moore Jr. and Frazier have started all four games this season. Despite these losses, Anderson remains optimistic, saying, “The five that are out there are going to get the job done.”
The Steelers’ offensive line managed to hold up in wins against the Falcons, Broncos, and Chargers, but struggled against Indianapolis. They didn’t score until the final play of the first half and trailed 17-0 before a second-half rally fell short. The inability to establish a strong running game was evident, with Cordarelle Patterson managing just 46 yards before leaving due to injury, and Najee Harris limited to 19 yards on 13 carries.
The Steelers’ offense, especially their running game, felt the absence of Daniels, as noted by tight end Pat Freiermuth, who observed that the Colts adjusted their defensive scheme to exploit the Steelers’ weakened line. Despite this, the team remains focused on improvement. Moore stressed the importance of executing better, regardless of who’s on the field, while Anderson remains ready for whatever comes next, saying, “You have to be ready whether Seumalo is playing or not.”
Seumalo’s return could provide a much-needed boost to the offensive line, but until then, the Steelers must find a way to adjust and adapt, hoping to avoid any further setbacks as they push through the season.
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