Steelers: A look at the Offensive Line
By Jack Tolman
Offensive Lines in pro football don’t exactly get the credit they deserve. It’s one of the most underrated positions in the sport because it presents nothing flashy and exciting. With that being said, it’s one of the most important position groups, especially for Pittsburgh.
For the Pittsburgh Steelers, having a stout offensive line has always been a priority. For the past few seasons, the offensive line in Pittsburgh has been one of the best in the league. Consistently underrated, the Steelers’ offensive line has been the force that has allowed Ben Roethlisberger the time to make some of the plays that have defined his career.
Heading into 2016, however, there are a few question marks on the offensive line. In a season with high expectations, the offensive line has one of the most important jobs of all; protecting the man who makes or breaks our season, Ben Roethlisberger.
It all starts in the center. Maurkice Pouncey is returning from a major leg injury that sidelined him for 2015. He underwent seven procedures, and you have to wonder what Maurkice Pouncey will be returning to the field. If healthy, Pouncey is an all-pro caliber center, and leader of the unit.
Another all-star on the Steelers line is David DeCastro, who has also proven to be one of the best in the league over the last couple of seasons. Last season, DeCastro allowed a mere 1.5 sacks and was rarely penalized. He proved to truly be one of the best in the league at his position.
Ramon Foster is the guard opposite of DeCastro. While Foster isn’t an all-pro caliber player like DeCastro and Pouncey, he’s been a solid starter for Pittsburgh for the last few years.
The right tackle in Pittsburgh has been Marcus Gilbert for the last couple of seasons. There hasn’t been much to say about Gilbert for the last couple of years, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Pro Football Focus rated him as the 3rd best tackle in the league, excelling in pass blocking.
The only real question and concern for the Pittsburgh offensive line is the left tackle position. The Steelers decided to let young stud Kelvin Beachum head to Jacksonville, because they believed he was asking for just too much money.
With Beachum absent for much of last year, former Army Ranger, Alejandro Villanueva, filled the role. Villanueva proved to be a pretty valuable asset and filled in admirably. He will compete with free agent acquisition Ryan Harris, and 4th round draft pick Jerald Hawkins for the position, but right now, it’s his job to lose.
Next: Steelers: Toughest Defense?
This season is all about staying healthy. If the Pittsburgh Steelers can manage to stay healthy, the sky is truly the limit. If the offensive line can do their job, stay healthy themselves (I’m looking at you Pouncey), and keep Ben upright, Pittsburgh is a Super Bowl contender.