Matt Feiler started 10 games for the Steelers last season, but according to him, the starting right tackle position is ‘up for grabs.’
Like a handful of unproven Steelers offensive linemen before him, Matt Feiler looked impressive in his first real NFL action. Former offensive line coach, Mike Munchak was known for getting the most out of undrafted and late round offensive linemen. Feiler was no exception.
With players like Alejandro Villanueva, Kelvin Beachum, Chris Hubbard, and B.J. Finney performing so well when called upon, it’s not overly surprising to see an undrafted player in Matt Feiler follow suit.
However, despite an above average grade given to him by Pro Football Focus last year (71.0) and starting 10 games in place of the injured Marcus Gilbert, Feiler’s job is not secure.
According to Chris Adamski of TribLIVE, Feiler himself claims the right tackle job is ‘up for grabs.’ Here’s what he had to say when asked if his starting job was secure:
"“No, it’s up for grabs. Coach (Mike Tomlin) talked about it (in those terms). I know I have got to keep fighting for the position and just keep improving every day. They are going to be mixing me in still. So just to keep me fresh at every position. The more you can do the better. Just try to keep my skills at every position sharp and ready to go.”"
Though Marcus Gilbert is no longer with the team, the Steelers spent a 3rd round draft choice on tackle, Chukwuma Okorafor, in 2018. Okorafor started 3 games this season and held his own against Von Miller and Broncos pass rush.
Okorafor possesses more length and athleticism than Feiler, but the latter is more battle-tested with 17 NFL games and 11 starts under his belt.
Also in the mix at right tackle are former 4th round draft choice, Jerald Hawkins, and this years’ 7th round pick, Derwin Gray.
Hawkins was drafted in 2016, but has been injured most of his career – causing him to only suit up for 5 games thus far. He is a player that will be on the hot seat this year in Pittsburgh. Likewise, Gray is on the outside looking in. As a 7th round draft selection, he will have to prove himself early if he wants to stick.
I don’t know exactly how the right tackle situation will sort itself out this year, but like the old saying goes, ‘competition makes you stronger.’ Perhaps the battle at right tackle will produce another long-time starter in a stretch of consistent offensive linemen up front.