Offseason programs are in full swing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and anticipation for the upcoming season is already growing. It’s been an eventful offseason so far with major roster changes, including the departure of key players, as well as the arrival of promising new talent. With Organized Team Activities (OTAs) now underway, players are beginning to speak with the media, sharing their thoughts and excitement as the team starts laying the groundwork for the regular season ahead.
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Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers' Cam Heyward working with Keeanu Benton during the offseason.
Steelers' offensive tackle Troy Fautanu was among the players who recently spoke to the media as offseason programs got underway. During his interview, Fautanu reflected on the 2025 NFL Draft and the impact it has had on the team, both on the players who were already part of the roster, as well as the new players. He recognized that with the Steelers’ focus on building strong and competitive guys up front, everyone is expected to step up and contribute at a high level.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly recently posted on X, highlighting the crucial role the offensive line will play this season and featuring a quote from Fautanu.
"You see with how the draft’s been going and the emphasis on drafting players up front is important," Fautanu said. "There’s an expectation behind that. They’re counting on us to do our jobs at a high level."
Fautanu was selected by the Steelers with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, a move that came with high expectations for the talented offensive lineman. Seen as a key addition to strengthen the Steelers’ front line, Fautanu entered his rookie season with excitement and pressure to make an immediate impact. Unfortunately, his rookie year in the NFL was disrupted when he suffered a knee injury during practice prior to the Week 3 game that ultimately cut his season short.
Despite the setback, Fautanu remains an important player within the organization, and his return is anticipated to be a significant boost to the team’s offensive line going into the new season.
AP photo
Steelers' 2024 first round pick Troy Fautanu gets introduced as a Pittsburgh Steeler by Art Rooney II.
The Steelers' offensive line in 2025 is undergoing a significant transformation, with a strong emphasis on youth and development. The team has invested heavily in the offensive line over the past two drafts, selecting Fautanu in the first round of 2024, center Zach Frazier in the second round, and guard Mason McCormick in the fourth round. Additionally, tackle Broderick Jones, a first-round pick in 2023, is transitioning to left tackle, while Fautanu is expected to start at right tackle. This change aims to strengthen the offensive line's performance, which struggled in 2024, ranking in the bottom half of the NFL in key metrics such as facing the blitz, quarterback pressure rate, and sack rate allowed.
The Steelers are keenly focused on making significant improvements along their offensive line, recognizing just how crucial this position group is to the overall success of the team. Fautanu, as a first-round pick, is stepping into a key role with a strong sense of determination to help elevate the group. Given that injuries have been a consistent challenge in recent seasons, there is a great deal of anticipation and optimism about seeing a fully healthy offensive line this year. A healthy front line could not only improve protection for the quarterback, but also open up running lanes and contribute to better overall offensive consistency.
Steelers' Offensive Line Doesn't Have A Clear Starting Quarterback To Protect
The offensive line currently faces the challenge of not having a definitive starting quarterback to protect. The glaring vacancy at this critical position has been dominating headlines. It’s no secret that the Steelers are the frontrunners to sign veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers this offseason, a storyline that has attracted so much attention, even Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw has weighed in on it.
Fox Sports
Steelers' Terry Bradshaw speaks on Fox Sports about Pittsburgh.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback spot, the offensive line remains focused, continuing to work hard and prepare to support whoever ultimately takes the snaps under center.
Do you think Fautanu is ready to make a significant jump in Year 2? Comment below!
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