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Steelers must fill major hole on O-line
The helmet of the Pittsburgh Steelers on the field. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers must fill major hole on O-line

The Steelers have a lot of positives to take away from their first preseason action, but they were also exposed in having one major position of need.

Pittsburgh has a serious problem at backup center. Kendrick Green, who served as the team's backup, struggled mightily, and has the Steelers left looking for options.

Some may not think it's a big deal, but if veteran center Mason Cole were to get injured, Pittsburgh could find itself in a troubling scenario.

The Steelers have put a lot of effort in strengthening their offensive line this offseason with the additions of veteran guard Isaac Seumalo and first round left tackle Broderick Jones. It could be all for nothing if Green finds his way into the starting lineup.

Green has primarily played center through his first two seasons. But after losing his job to Cole last year, the team has begun experimenting a switch to fullback for him.

The move to fullback would show his position flexibility and help build his case to make the 53-man roster. But if Green can't serve as Pittsburgh's backup center, it's unlikely fullback alone will be enough for him to make the roster.

The Steelers' answer may already be on their roster. Rookie Spencer Anderson played several positions on the offensive line on Friday night and may get an opportunity this week to prove his case as the backup center. Guard Nate Herbig could be a viable option as well.

However, if neither player works out, Pittsburgh will have to look at outside options in free agency.

There isn't a lot of talent left but with cutdown day nearing, there could be some good options in soon-to-be released players when team's cut their rosters down to 53 at the end of August.

Either way, the Steelers must figure out who can be a reliable backup for them with the start of the 2023 season just a few weeks away. 

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