Bell: Steelers Rookie Zach Frazier Ready to Start Day One (+)
The 2024 NFL Draft class was a rare case study where there were a surprising number of talented centers available, which was one reason they were so comfortable avoiding that position in free agency. In the second-round, they selected Zach Frazier and this was a fit that just made sense on a number of different levels. His competitive toughness, grappling skills and general ability to displace defenders out of gaps definitely fit the run-first culture that the Steelers are trying to reinvent, not just in 2024 but beyond.
A couple of months ago, I wrote a piece attempting to set realistic expectations for this rookie class. In that article, I stated that Frazier was arguably the most NFL-ready player that they had selected. The reasons for that were fairly simple: he was technical sound prospect who played with great leverage, showcased high football IQ and a wrestling background that was very evident on tape. Even despite not being an overwhelming athlete, he checked so many boxes for what you look for at the position, without any overly glaring weaknesses.
Their hand may be forced by an injury to Nate Herbig, In the first two preseason games, including a start against the Buffalo Bills, Frazier put his skills on display and looked completely at home in the pivot spot.
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