As the new Pittsburgh Steelers coaching staff figures out the newly formed offensive line, things could get interesting. Not only are some of the starting jobs up for grabs come training camp, but there are key roster openings to be won. Following the early shuffling of the young group in the trenches and massive additions from the offseason, the Steelers will have tough choices to make.
One of the bigger moves this offseason was when the Steelers signed Brock Hoffman in free agency. It didn't come as a surprise to many since the offensive lineman had prior connections to head coach Mike McCarthy. That prior bond brought Hoffman to Pittsburgh, but it is yet to be seen if it keeps him around.
He is in a unique spot as training camp approaches.
The versatile offensive lineman has a shot at winning the starting right guard spot this Summer. Despite his high hopes of winning that vacancy, Hoffman must first earn a place on the roster. He hasn't gotten much attention as training camp approaches, but the veteran has an opportunity to make a massive impact.
Pittsburgh Steelers Brock Hoffman should get more roster chances at training camp
When you review the current roster for the Steelers as they prepare for training camp, the battle at right guard is clear. You have Spencer Anderson as the favorite, with Brock Hoffman a close second, and Gennings Dunker as the rookie who could surprise many. The idea of Dunker starting as a rookie is appealing, but don't be shocked if Pittsburgh wants a veteran to at least start the season.
Since Anderson and Dunker are in the mix to win the job, many have looked past Hoffman. The newly added lineman is someone the fans shouldn't brush off as a true option to start. The new coaching staff doesn't seem to have a bias towards one of the three options starting. If they did, it makes sense for that bias to go in Hoffman's favor with his prior connection to Mike McCarthy.
It should be an interesting competition for the starting right guard spot.
The newly shuffled offensive line is something the team will have to solve throughout training camp. The battle between Anderson, Dunker, and Hoffman could truly be won by whoever has better chemistry with the other starters at the beginning of training camp. No matter if he wins the post or not, Brock Hoffman shouldn't sweat when it comes to roster cuts.
His job is mostly safe going into the preseason process, but that could always change if he has a dreadful performance. The best quality about Hoffman is his ability to play multiple spots on the offensive line. He can play either guard spot or at center. His prior starts in those roles make him an intriguing player. Keep your eye on him at training camp, as he could have a massive impact.
