Steelers Face Injury Setbacks: Seumalo Out for a Month; Herbig’s Season Ends
The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a challenging phase as they head into the new season, with a slew of injuries impacting their roster. The team received a mixed bag of news following their recent Wednesday practice, which has left the coaching staff with several key decisions to make.
Seumalo to Miss a Month
Starting guard Isaac Seumalo suffered a pectoral injury during practice, prompting immediate concern within the Steelers' camp. Fortunately, subsequent tests revealed that Seumalo avoided a season-ending injury, though he is expected to be sidelined for about a month. This development is particularly striking as Seumalo started all 17 games for the Steelers last season, providing stability and experience on the offensive line.
Seumalo joined the Steelers last season after spending the first eight years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. His resume includes being a key reserve on the Eagles team that clinched the Super Bowl in 2017, as well as a starter on the 2022 NFC championship squad. His absence, albeit temporary, leaves a noticeable gap in the team's offensive front.
Nate Herbig’s Season-Ending Injury
Adding to the team's woes, Nate Herbig, who was vying for the starting center role, sustained a season-ending shoulder injury during the final practice of training camp. Herbig's injury deals a severe blow to the Steelers, drastically altering their plans for the center position.
Other Injury Concerns
In addition to Seumalo and Herbig, Broderick Jones has been playing through an elbow injury that has hampered his performance during the exhibition games. Jones's elbow issue has been a point of concern for the coaching staff, affecting his contribution on the field.
Stepping Up: Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson
With Seumalo sidelined, the Steelers are looking towards their rookie talent to step up. Rookie Mason McCormick and 2023 seventh-round pick Spencer Anderson are the frontrunners to fill the void. McCormick, a fourth-round pick from FCS South Dakota State, has shown promise during training. Anderson, who appeared in eight games as a rookie last season, is also in contention for the starting role.
"He recently said that he would be ready if the Steelers asked him to move over to center in light of Herbig's injury," noted a source close to the team, referring to McCormick's willingness to adapt to the team's needs.
The Road Ahead
This period of adjustment will test the Steelers' resilience and cohesion. Navigating through the coming weeks with a patched-up line will require precise execution from both seasoned players and rookies. The adaptability and performance of these players will be crucial in shaping the course of the Steelers' season.
Despite the injury setbacks, the mood within the Steelers camp remains cautiously optimistic. The team is aware of the challenges ahead, and the forthcoming games will be pivotal in determining their lineup moving forward.
In times like these, a statement often heard within the team resonates more deeply: "We dodged a bullet." While facing adversity, the Steelers remain focused on maintaining their competitive edge, aiming to ensure that the absence of key players like Seumalo and Herbig does not derail their aspirations for the season.
As fans and analysts alike keep a close watch, the Steelers' response to these injuries will be a testament to their depth and determination. The coming weeks will reveal much about the true mettle of this team.