Steelers' Zach Frazier Receives High Praise: "He Reminds Me Of Alan Faneca."

The Pittsburgh Steelers might've struck gold in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. After just two seasons in the league, Zach Frazier has already earned recognition as one of the most promising young centers at the professional level. His steady presence and physical style have helped stabilize a developing offensive line, giving Pittsburgh something to build around up front. Frazier has become the anchor in a young but up-and-coming offensive line in Pittsburgh, and one former Steeler lineman recognizes the greatness in the former West Virginia Mountaineer.

The Steelers know a thing or two about having great centers lead the way on the offensive line, with several legendary names setting the standard over the years. Those players weren’t just responsible for snapping the football; they served as vocal leaders, tone-setters in the trenches, and protectors of the quarterbacks behind them. Frazier has embraced those same responsibilities early in his career, showing a level of poise that’s rare for someone still adjusting to the speed of the professional game.

Former Steelers center Jeff Hartings sees the potential in Frazier, and believes his mentality could eventually place him among some of the organization’s most respected offensive linemen. Hartings understands what it takes to succeed in Pittsburgh’s demanding system, having been part of dominant offensive lines himself. Because of that experience, his evaluation carries extra weight when discussing young players who are still carving out their identities in the league.

Hartings recently joined FOX Sports 970 AM with Tim Benz to discuss the Steelers’ young offensive line, and he didn’t hold back when talking about Frazier’s early impact. During the conversation, he offered significant praise for the young center’s work ethic, leadership, and on-field mentality, even going as far as to compare his approach to that of Hall of Fame guard Alan Faneca.

"I think he's really solid. He's doing a great job. He reminds me of, not from the position that he's playing but from the mentality, of Alan Faneca," Hartings said. "And what I mean by that, in a game, the effort that he gives on a play and then getting back to the huddle in between quarters. I mean, he's the first guy down the field sprinting down there to get ready. He's a leader, and that's what a center has to do."

That comparison isn’t necessarily about technique or physical attributes, but rather about the relentless approach that defines elite linemen. Centers are often expected to do more than just block, they serve as extensions of the coaching staff on the field by making protection calls and ensuring the offense is aligned properly. 

Frazier’s toughness has stood out in a league that demands durability from interior linemen. Week after week, he has lined up against some of the NFL’s most powerful defensive tackles, battling through physical contests that test both strength and endurance. His resilience has earned respect inside the locker room, where teammates appreciate his consistency and willingness to do the dirty work that often goes unnoticed on the stat sheet.

Steelers Expect Frazier's Leadership On Offensive Line

As Pittsburgh continues to develop its offense, the presence of a reliable center provides a sense of stability that can accelerate the growth of younger players around him. A strong offensive line allows skill-position players more time to execute plays and gives the coaching staff flexibility when designing game plans. 

If Frazier continues progressing at his current pace, he could play a major role in helping the Steelers reestablish a physical, run-first identity that has historically defined the franchise.

As the Steelers enter a new era following the hiring of head coach Mike McCarthy, Pittsburgh will look to Frazier now more than ever to lead the way with his physical style that the Steelers have long been known for. 

Throughout franchise history, the team has built its identity around toughness in the trenches, and Frazier fits that mold perfectly. He brings a hard-nosed mentality to every snap, finishes blocks with authority, and sets a tone that reflects the gritty, smash-mouth brand of football Steelers fans have always embraced.

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