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The biggest question surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive line is at offensive tackle. Troy Fautanu has moved to left tackle, creating a competition on the opposite side. While the Steelers are also sorting out a battle at right guard, they at least have veteran depth at that position. Despite those questions, the offensive line has one significant advantage: Zach Frazier at center. The former West Virginia Mountaineer has already developed into one of the NFL’s best centers, and it isn’t just Steelers fans who have noticed.
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ESPN recently identified one player from each team who could emerge as the best at his position, and Frazier earned that distinction for Pittsburgh.
“Frazier’s run blocking is just as impressive as his pass blocking. With the heavy anchor and core strength of a dominant supersized guard, as well as the quick feet and sharp angles of an undersized center, Frazier unlocks the full menu of run concepts for Pittsburgh — per ESPN’s numbers, the Steelers ran the common run concepts (outside zone, inside zone, duo, power, etc.) at league-average rates. His experience snapping the ball to Aaron Rodgers is certainly helping the mental side of his game as well. Of all the players on this list, Frazier would be my bet to eventually become the best player at his position in the NFL.” ESPN reported.
Frazier has been a crucial stabilizer
The Steelers struggled to replace Maurkice Pouncey after he retired following the 2020 season. They cycled through three starting centers before finally landing on Frazier. Mason Cole showed promise in 2022 but regressed in 2023, prompting Pittsburgh to select Frazier in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. That decision has already paid major dividends. Not only has Frazier continued to elevate his own game, but he has also stabilized the interior of the offensive line.
The Steelers initially prioritized an outside-in approach by investing first-round picks at offensive tackle in 2023 and 2024. However, if teams were to redraft the 2024 NFL Draft today, Frazier would almost certainly be a first-round selection. His consistency and high-level play have helped elevate the players around him, including Mason McCormick, who appears well on his way to becoming a quality NFL starter.
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Frazier’s presence provides a blueprint for building an offensive line
While the Steelers rebuilt their offensive line from the outside in, Frazier’s play illustrates why the traditional inside-out philosophy remains so effective. His ability to anchor the middle strengthens the entire unit, making life easier for the guards and offensive tackles alike. Even Dylan Cook stepped in and provided stability after Broderick Jones went down with an injury.
If that seems like an exaggeration, look back at the Steelers’ 2021 offensive line. Kevin Dotson, Kendrick Green, and Trai Turner started on the interior, but the run game, particularly on inside zone concepts, lacked consistency. Green’s struggles at center also had a ripple effect across the offensive line, and it quickly became clear that the group wasn’t built for sustained success. Ironically, Dotson has since developed into one of the NFL’s top interior offensive linemen with the Los Angeles Rams.
That contrast highlights Frazier’s impact. He doesn’t just give the Steelers a long-term answer at center, he provides the foundation for the entire offensive line. Pittsburgh can build around Frazier and potentially return to the dominant offensive line play it enjoyed during the Pouncey era.
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This story was originally published July 12, 2026 at 8:00 AM.