6 Steelers who are poised to break out in 2020 season
By Andrew Falce
Zach Banner
Almost out of the league a few years ago, Zach Banner has transformed himself into a valuable piece on the offensive line. He is a huge player who, since he has gotten his weight under control, has become a valuable 6th option on the OL. With Matt Feiler likely shifting to the inside this season, Banner will be competing for the Steelers starting RT job.
Last year, Banner mostly saw the field as the eligible TE/extra blocker in heavy sets. He was effective, earning playing time over Chukwuma Okorafor and even starting a game at RT. He returned on a one-year deal and is set to compete with Okorafor for the RT spot. It won’t be handed to him, but considering his transformation as a player, he seems like a good candidate early in this process.
He does have some limitations though, mainly his movement in open space. This will likely limit him to RT only, a small downside but not one to fret too much about. He has renewed passion as well, something that was seemingly reignited when he came to the Steelers. Assuming he can beat out Okorafor, something he did last year, expect a solid 16 starts out of him assuming he stays healthy.