The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted guard Mason McCormick in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Drafting McCormick was a bit of a question mark, not because he wasn't a good pick, but because Steeler Nation wasn't very familiar with him since he played at South Dakota State. Despite the uncertainty, McCormick has been thrust into the lineup as injuries have decimated the offensive line, and as a rookie, he has shown a lot of potential. While it’s still early in his career, McCormick appears to be a true Steelers player, one who has the potential to make a significant impact in the Steel City.
The Steelers have clearly shown they are investing in the trenches, evident in their recent draft decisions and acquisitions. However, there has been growing concern about their Offensive Line Coach Pat Meyer. Some fans and pundits have voiced skepticism about his ability to develop and manage the offensive line effectively. With the team struggling to maintain a consistent performance on the line, the pressure is on Meyer to find ways to optimize the talents of the players at his disposal, including McCormick.
During an interview on Steelers Nation Radio, McCormick made it a point to give credit to Meyer, emphasizing the importance of coaching in his early development. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the offensive line, but praised Meyer for his commitment and the guidance he provides.
"He's done a tremendous job," McCormick said Thursday on Steelers Nation Radio's The Drive. "I can speak for myself, coming from South Dakota State, I had some things to learn, and he taught me exponentially quick."
Meyer has faced considerable criticism, but the way the offensive line has performed in 2024, despite significant injuries, suggests that he’s doing something right.
McCormick further elaborated on his enthusiasm for working with Meyer, expressing excitement about the opportunity to learn and improve under his guidance. This collaborative spirit highlights McCormick's commitment to growth and the potential for the offensive line to continue evolving throughout the season.
"I'm gonna keep getting better and better and just having trust in him," McCormick said. "But the tools and things he has given me have allowed me to grow into this player I'm becoming and he's gonna keep pushing me in the future."
This endorsement from McCormick may help ease some concerns among fans, as the rookie demonstrates not only his potential on the field but also his understanding of the importance of teamwork and support within the organization.
When the Steelers drafted McCormick, some pundits labeled him a sleeper pick. Draft scouts were particularly drawn to his performance in tougher matchups against higher competition, noting that he didn't miss a beat despite the increased challenge. This consistency made them comfortable taking a fourth-round chance on him.
Steelers' Rookie Mason McCormick Has Impressed Pundits
Pro Football Focus has graded McCormick with a score of 61.8, ranking him as the 53rd highest-rated guard in the NFL. While this is respectable for a rookie, McCormick has much higher aspirations than merely being an above-average player in the league. He has excelled in pass protection and has also shown promise in run blocking, demonstrating his all-around potential.
Despite past struggles, there is renewed hope for the future of the offensive line. The young talent on the line is expected to grow together, setting up the Steelers for a well-oiled unit in the years to come. Steelers fans are excited to witness McCormick's development as he continues to settle into his role in the Steel City, eagerly anticipating his progression as a key player in the team’s future.
