Andrew's Steelers Training Camp Primer: Offensive Line
PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) - The Steelers have had trouble getting both health and consistency from their offensive line in recent years.
In this latest in the series of 93.7TheFan.com Exclusive Web Primers, Andrew Fillipponi will take a closer look at the Steelers offensive line.
Willie Colon was let go and he will take his injury history to the Jets in a move Fillipponi likes. Also sent packing was the occasionally dominant Max Starks who will look to contribute with the Chargers.
Marcus Gilbert could be next in line at left tackle and Fillipponi thinks that this is a step back.
Mike Adams is the favorite at right tackle after he has healed from his stabbing attack. The success of these two is essential for a productive offense. However, Fillipponi does not expect both players to dominate. Ben Roethlisberger's awareness has improved to a point where he can avoid mistakes by young linemen.
Fillipponi likes what Ramon Foster, David DeCastro and Maurkice Pouncey should be able to do for the run game. Injuries are a concern for even the most durable interior lineman. Foster is not dominant but he is more than servicable. If DeCastro can stay healthy, his talent should allow him to excel. Pouncey will put the Hernandez hat fiasco in the rear view and hopefully stay healthy as well.
Fillipponi believes, "the offensive line will not be a strength for this team" but it is not likely that offensive line play will be so bad that it would keep the Steelers from the playoffs.
