The Pittsburgh Steelers were thrilled when they had the opportunity to draft offensive tackle Troy Fautanu with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Pundits widely praised this selection, calling it a great value and a significant win for Pittsburgh. The Steelers were eager to see what Fautanu could bring to the team, especially given his potential to strengthen their offensive line.
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Steelers' Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones sit in their lockers before Week 1 against the Falcons.
Early reports indicated that Fautanu was named the starting right tackle for the Steelers heading into the season. Unfortunately, in his first preseason game against the Houston Texans, Fautanu suffered a knee injury, sidelining him for a period. Ahead of the game against the Denver Broncos, it was announced that Fautanu would be named the starting right tackle, with Dan Moore Jr. starting at left tackle. This decision pushed the Steelers' 2023 first-round pick, Broderick Jones, to the bench, raising questions among fans.
Steelers fans have been curious about how Head Coach Mike Tomlin truly feels about Fautanu. On Tuesday, Tomlin spoke to the media and revealed just how highly he regards the rookie tackle, emphasizing Fautanu’s impact and importance to the team.
"It’s more reflective of what Troy was doing. Troy has been lighting it up. I don’t talk in the preseason much particularly about rookies because it doesn't help me and it doesn't help them, but based on my actions in putting him in the lineup, I’m sure you have an understanding of what I was looking at in terms of team development."
Tomlin's remarks reassured fans that the team has complete confidence in Fautanu's abilities moving forward. When asked about Fautanu’s limited preseason action due to his knee injury, Tomlin disagreed, stating that he has seen more than enough from the young tackle.
AP
Steelers' Troy Fautanu smiles as he gets introduced to the team.
He continued to praise Fautanu, emphasizing his potential and the significant impression he’s already made, despite the setbacks. Tomlin’s unwavering support highlights the trust the coaching staff has in Fautanu’s role on the offensive line.
"Actually, I did. You know, we were not passive about playing him in the preseason when he was available... Some of the things that he has shown us has nothing to do with anything other than pedigree. He's really talented and that is very evident and so we play him."
During the Broncos game, Tomlin rotated Jones into the lineup on the third drive. However, Jones was flagged for three penalties, which negated a couple of big plays. After that, Jones didn’t see the field again, as Tomlin stuck with Fautanu.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Believes He Has Gold In Troy Fautanu
There was significant anticipation surrounding what Fautanu could bring to the offensive line, and Tomlin is already seeing it. He’s thrilled about Fautanu’s potential, which is great news for Steeler Nation.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin, Art Rooney II and Omar Khan take a photo with Troy Fautanu.
While concerns about Jones' performance against Denver linger, the young tackle will continue to work hard and fight for his next opportunity. Meanwhile, the Steelers' offensive line is focused on getting fully healthy, and with Fautanu in the mix, Tomlin feels confident.
It's notable just how much faith Tomlin has in Fautanu so early on. Steelers fans have often seen Tomlin hesitate to start rookies, but he’s made an exception with Fautanu. That speaks volumes about how highly Tomlin rates his talent.
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