The Pittsburgh Steelers have been strategically fortifying their offensive line over recent seasons, demonstrating a clear commitment to strengthening the trenches. In the 2023 NFL Draft, they made a decisive move by trading up in the first round to select Broderick Jones. Continuing their focus on the offensive front, the Steelers drafted a standout talent in Troy Fautanu during the 2024 NFL Draft. For two consecutive years, they've allocated their first-round picks to bolster their offensive line.
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Steelers' Troy Fautanu takes a picture with Art Rooney II during his media session.
The Steelers' efforts didn't end with these high-profile selections. In the second round, they addressed another crucial position by drafting center Zach Frazier, and further deepened their line by picking guard Mason McCormick in the fourth round. These strategic choices are designed to lay a strong foundation for the offensive line that will support the team's aspirations for years to come.
However, not every selection has lived up to expectations. Dan Moore Jr., a fourth-round pick from the 2021 NFL Draft, has faced a mixed reception regarding his development. Despite starting in all 49 games he has played over three seasons, Moore's performance has not seen the progression many hoped for. His 2023 season was particularly challenging, as reflected by a Pro Football Focus rating of just 51.8, sparking conversations about his future with the team.
The discourse around Moore's potential trade has become a topic of contention within the Steelers community. Trading him this season may not be beneficial, but considerations for his departure could become more pronounced as he nears the end of his rookie contract.
According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the trade value for Moore remains grim, indicating that the Steelers might have to weigh their options carefully. Fittipaldo believes that the Steelers could get a seventh round pick in exchange for trading Moore. That's not awesome value on a guy you drafted in the fourth round, but it's better than nothing.
As the Steelers continue to build and refine their offensive line, the development of players like Moore and the integration of new draftees will be crucial. The team's commitment to their offensive strategy underscores their long-term vision, aiming to create a robust unit capable of competing at the highest levels and supporting the dynamic needs of their offense. This approach not only promises a stronger line but also hopes to cultivate a competitive edge that will benefit the Steelers in the challenging seasons ahead.
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Steelers' Dan Moore Jr. comes out of the tunnel for the start of the game.
Steelers fans are thrilled to see that the organization has taken significant steps to strengthen their offensive line. In the NFL, a solid offensive line is essential for winning games. Although the Steelers have improved, they still rank in the bottom half of the league. However, with new talent arriving and developing together, there is renewed optimism about the future of the offensive line in Pittsburgh.
Steelers Will Need Their Offensive Line To Step Up In 2024
With Arthur Smith now at the helm as the Steelers' new offensive coordinator, the team's offensive strategy is expected to feature a robust mix of play-action passes and ground-and-pound running plays. For Smith's scheme to be successful, the offensive line will need to assert its dominance in the trenches. It will be exciting to watch these new players mature as a unit in Pittsburgh.
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Steelers' Dan Moore Jr. during a game.
Currently, it seems unlikely that the Steelers would trade Moore, as the organization values him more than external perceptions might suggest. Nevertheless, his future with the team will likely become a subject of discussion as his rookie contract nears the end. The 2024 season will be pivotal for Moore. Steeler Nation is hopeful that he will significantly improve and outperform his 2023 season, demonstrating his true potential and solidifying his place on the team.
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