Steelers' Andrus Peat Seriously Putting Coaching Staff On Notice: "Really Stood Out"

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a move to protect their offensive line depth by signing veteran, versatile offensive lineman Andrus Peat. The Steelers brought him in as a security piece because he can play both tackle and guard, giving the team flexibility in an area that can make or break a season. 

Peat’s versatility is especially valuable because he is comfortable playing on either the right or left side of the line. That means if one of the younger tackles, like Broderick Jones or Troy Fautanu, struggles, the Steelers have a seasoned veteran ready to step in without missing a beat. The same applies to the guard positions, allowing Pittsburgh to maintain consistency even if injuries or performance issues arise.

Former two-time Super Bowl champion Steelers tackle Trai Essex shared some insight about what he observed from Peat during preseason game two against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Essex highlighted that Peat’s technique and physicality stood out, especially in how he handled his matchups. 

"Hey y’all, ANDRUS PEAT balled out! #68 was by far the best lineman on the field, albeit against the backups," Essex shared in a social media post to his followers on X. "That said, everyone needs to watch how he went about his job on Saturday. It really stood out in a great way. His hands were violent, and his feet were moving like pistons."

The Steelers, heading into the 2025 season, will be tasked with keeping 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers upright. To do this, of course, the offensive line has to be elite. 

The Steelers have some young players on their line, which is likely why they wanted more veteran experience and went out to get Peat. Essex was careful to note that the former three-time Pro Bowler was playing against backups, but his technique could not be ignored.

"Our young guys still do too much catching and reacting," Essex said. "We need more striking and attacking. And he did all of this at LG. It was great to see, and I hope the young guys were watching."

According to Essex, Peat is not just filling a spot. He is making plays with precision and showing younger players how to attack instead of just react. His hands were quick and violent, and his feet moved like pistons according to Essex, a combination that makes him a force on the line. This praise from Essex is exciting because he played in the NFL for eight seasons. He is well aware of what it looks like to be playing good ball. His praise means a ton.

Peat’s presence does not just provide insurance. It sets a standard for the Steelers’ offensive line room. Young linemen now have a model of what pro-level execution looks like in both technique and intensity. Essex’s observations suggest that Peat’s impact goes beyond his own snaps. He is elevating the play of those around him simply by showing how the position should be played. For a Steelers team aiming to be physical and disciplined up front, having a player like Peat could make all the difference as the regular season approaches.

Steelers' Andrus Peat Could Find Spot As Starter Before 2025 Season Ends

Peat was brought in to provide a safety net and serve as a backup. His impact should be valuable whether he gets significant game reps or not, as he is a veteran who can help this young group learn and improve in the NFL.

If he keeps turning heads like he did against the Buccaneers, maybe he could push for a starting spot at some point in the 2025 season. If the Steelers do not have to use him, that would mean Jones and Fautanu are holding their own.

Do you agree with Essex about Peat's strong showing against Tampa Bay? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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