Nate Herbig's unfortunate injury news opens door for friendly Steelers reunion

It was just reported that Nate Herbig would be sidelined for the Steelers indefinitely after suffering a torn rotator cuff. It is sad news as the longtime backup had a solid preseason process and seemed on the verge of earning the starting center spot to begin the year. He is now sidelined, and he may miss the entire season.

For the immediate impact, it doesn't alter too much of what Pittsburgh is going to do at the starting center spot. Zach Frazier was going to take on that role no matter if Herbig stayed healthy or not. This does change how the offensive line could morph into something different on the final 53-man roster. The center position was thin with talent before Herbig went down, now it's scarce.

Currently, the Steelers have guys like Ryan McCollum, Spencer Anderson, and Mason McCormick as potential options who could fill the backup role at center. Other than McCollum, neither Anderson nor McCormick have seen snaps at the position much throughout training camp or preseason action. One of them could quickly emerge as an option, but going into the regular season with them as the only choice is scary.

Time will tell what the Steelers do to help fill the void left behind by Herbig's injury. There are some options internally who could emerge for the Steelers, but they might need to investigate other guys out there. Both free agency and waiver wires could be the final decision for Pittsburgh to provide a boost at the depth of the position.

It might be time for the Steelers to place a call to Mason Cole

If the black and gold are looking for a veteran guy with a lot of experience at the position, why not make a call to their former starting center? Mason Cole remains a free agent after becoming a cap casualty of the Steelers this past spring. He was making too much money for the low level of play that he provided at the time.

Since he remains unemployed out there, it would make sense for Pittsburgh to place a call to Cole to check his interest in a reunion. Bringing him back would likely cost the minimum wage for a veteran NFL player in this instance. He might not have been worth the money he was paid years ago, but that price would make this move reasonable.

Not only can Cole start for you at center if needed, but he can also bring a versatile attitude with him. He has also played guard throughout his career both as a starter and in a depth role as well. He might not be the perfect option, but he is someone the Steelers are familiar with who has a lot of experience. Cole might be a perfect option to replace Herbig.

Ideally, it would be best for the team if someone like Anderson or McCormick could become the top backup guard and center option. Getting younger and experience in that role is something the Steelers should strive for. Their lack of experience right now is concerning, so having an option like Cole would provide some stability.