Through their first two games of the season, the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line has been a bright spot. While the unit has not been perfect, they have comfortably outperformed expectations so far. Rookie Zach Frazier has arguably been the team’s best offensive lineman through two weeks. His fellow rookie Troy Fautanu missed Week 1 but started at right tackle in Week 2 and put together a strong performance. But the best player on Pittsburgh’s offensive line left guard Isaac Seumalo, has not yet played due to a pec injury.
Seumalo, whose return could potentially be on the horizon, would provide a jolt to Pittsburgh’s offensive line and, further, their entire offense. Spencer Anderson, Seumalo’s replacement, has been the Steelers’ obvious weak link in the trenches. The return of Seumalo, which Mike Tomlin said is “getting closer,” could truly turn Pittsburgh’s offensive line into a top-1o unit in the league.
Isaac Seumalo Could Provide Boost to Shaky Steelers Offense
Return is Unlikely to Come This Week
While his return will be crucial for the Steelers, Isaac Seumalo will almost certainly not be returning this week. Mike Tomlin’s press conference comments should never be taken literally; there is always some interpretation that needs to be done. Him saying Seumalo is getting close to a return means Seumalo will maybe participate in practice later this week, but don’t expect a return to game action until next week.
Pittsburgh would love to have Isaac Seumalo this week for their matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. There is an obvious disclaimer of having faced off with the Las Vegas Raiders and Carolina Panthers, but the Chargers defensive line has been very strong through two weeks, especially against the run. The Steelers’ offensive line has done a good job of run blocking so far, which is critical for an offense built around running the ball. However, the Chargers’ defensive front will be their toughest test to date, and having Seumalo would be a big help.
How Isaac Seumalo will Improve the Offense
Whenever he ultimately returns, Isaac Seumalo will instantly make the Steelers’ offensive line better. With Seumalo back in the lineup, it’s fair to say Pittsburgh will have an elite interior offensive line. Entering the season, Seumalo and James Daniels were considered to be one of the best guard duos in the NFL. At the time, center was a question mark. That is no longer the case, given Frazier’s superb performance through two games. As a between-the-tackles running team, having such a solid interior offensive line trio will work wonders for the Steelers.
Another reason Seumalo’s return will provide Pittsburgh a boost is a simple one. When he’s in the lineup, they will have their five best linemen on the field together. Dan Moore Jr. has exceeded expectations so far, especially considering he has been playing alongside Anderson. Being paired with Seumalo on the left side of the offensive line will only make Moore’s job easier. The veteran presence of Seumalo will make Frazier’s job easier, too. It’s not hard to envision the two creating huge gaps in the running game and shutting down stunts in the passing game.
With a young quarterback, subpar wide receiver group, and running-focused offense, it’s no secret that Pittsburgh’s offensive success will come via a strong offensive line. While they have been good so far, the eventual return of Isaac Seumalo will make the unit even better.
Main Image: Gary A. Vasquez – USA Today Sports
