The Pittsburgh Steelers' actions throughout recent drafts have displayed how important the offense line is to the organization. General Manager Omar Khan and his partner-in-crime Andy Weidl have made a clear emphasis on bringing in young talent on the line. During the 2024 NFL Draft, they selected three new linemen who are all expected to play at some point, and their last two first-round picks have been spent on tackles.
One of the Steelers recent additions on the offensive line is Mason McCormick. He was one of the linemen drafted in 2024, as Pittsburgh selected him in the fourth round. McCormick isn't expected to play much during his rookie year, as Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels have the guard spots locked up for the Steelers. McCormick recently did an interview with Dakota News Now, where he shared his goals for his rookie year in 2024.
"I just want to be able to help the team in any way I can. Whether that's on special teams or on offense, wherever. Help the team however, get on the field as fast as I can."
McCormick will see most of his action on special teams, unless Seumalo or Daniels go down to injury. McCormick primarily played left guard during his time at South Dakota State, but is known for his versatility on the interior of the offense line, even having some experience at center. McCormick wants to get on the field fast, but he will likely have to wait at least a year until he sees valuable playing time.
Daniels is entering his third season with the Steelers, and has quietly been one of the team's best players over that time. His contract expires after the 2024 season, and the chances of him returning to the Steelers are slim. He will earn a rather large pay day, and it seems like Pittsburgh will be letting another team take on that responsibility. This is why drafting McCormick was so important, and it also gave a glimpse into Daniel's future with the Steelers.
McCormick is more comfortable on the left side, but once the 2024 season is over the hole on the line will be at right guard. Pittsburgh will have a whole season to see the rookie develop, and decide if he is a player that should be starting at the NFL level. Pittsburgh's 2024 draft class has a chance to be a really important part of the organization moving forward with Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, and Mason McCormick all having clear paths to becoming valuable starters.
Once it is confirmed that Daniels won't return to Pittsburgh, the Steelers may decide to sign or draft other guards. This would just be a precaution, as it seems McCormick is the plan at the position for the foreseeable future after the 2024 season.
Steelers Offensive Line Will Be One Of The Youngest In The League
Technically, Fautanu and Frazier are not starters yet. Head Coach Mike Tomlin likes to make rookies earn their starting spot, which has been seen in years past. Once everything works out, and the pieces are all in place, the Steelers offensive line will have the potential to be one of the best, young lines in the league.
In 2024, the offensive line will eventually have a second year player in Broderick Jones and two rookies. After Daniels leaves it will have three second year players and Jones during the 2025 season. It's going to be an inexperienced unit, but they will be led by a reliable veteran in Seumalo. Together they will have the potential to be a dominant force with Arthur Smith's run-heavy offense. It's unlikely every player succeeds, but they will all have a good opportunity in Pittsburgh.
