Steelers Fans Get Exposed For Not Appreciating Dan Moore Jr: 'They Don’t Know What Good And Quality Starters Are'

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been associated with numerous positions in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Holding the 20th overall pick, there are suggestions that they should consider trading down. On the other hand, there's a belief that their priority lies in drafting a replacement for Dan Moore Jr.

Duke Manyweather, an esteemed offensive line expert, offers a unique perspective on Moore compared to many Steelers fans. He recently joined Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Tuesday morning on the Chipped Ham and Football podcast, shedding light on the Steelers' draft strategy and potential moves. Manyweather wasn't shy in sharing his belief that Moore has been a very quality starter for the Steelers.

“You know Dan is one of those guys. You know he was a fourth round pick a couple of years ago and every year people are looking to replace him. There’s something to be said about the way Dan goes about his business. The way he prepares and the way he’s gotten better every single year.” 

“I think the coaching staff and the front office respects that. What you are seeing is a guy who has started for three years or so and has turned into a really solid football player.” 

Manyweather conceded that Moore still has areas in which he can improve, but he emphasized that perfection is elusive even in the NFL. He urged Steelers fans to recognize and value Moore's strengths and contributions.

“Does he have things that he needs to continue to develop and clean up? Absolutely, most players do. I think that fans often, they don’t know what good and quality starters are in terms of the difference between an elite guy and a good starter.” 

The Steelers selected Moore in the fourth round of the 2021 draft. Despite not being initially projected as a starter, he has impressively started in all 49 available games for the team. Moore's journey in Pittsburgh has been marked by hard work and determination, leading Manyweather to affirm that he has been a tremendous asset to the team.

“You could make the argument that Dan Moore has kinda exceeded expectations in terms of where he was drafted.” 

While Manyweather regards Moore highly as a football player, Pro Football Focus graded Moore's 2023 season with a 51.7 grade. According to their assessment, he encountered struggles, leading some to advocate for his replacement, particularly considering the caliber of tackles available in the NFL draft. However, Manyweather maintains that Moore's performance surpasses that grade.

Steelers' Dan Moore Jr. Should Be Worried About Pittsburgh's Draft Plans

While the Steelers hold Moore in high regard, their respect for him doesn't preclude them from seeking to upgrade their starting lineup. Despite Moore's dedication and the belief by Manyweather that he's somewhat underappreciated in Pittsburgh, the team acknowledges the need to bolster their offensive line. The pursuit of excellence doesn't accommodate average players.

With the Steelers being linked to promising young offensive tackle prospects in the first round, the possibility of selecting one at the 20th pick looms. Should such a scenario unfold, it's speculated that Moore could be displaced from the starting lineup. Naturally, this draft strategy will be of keen interest to him.

Nevertheless, Moore is unlikely to relinquish his position without a fight, reflecting the Steelers' faith in his abilities. As long as he remains on the roster, he'll fiercely compete to retain his starting role. Overall, the Steelers recognize the imperative for improvement across their offensive line, particularly with the arrival of new quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, both of whom require solid protection to excel in the 2024 season. 

Wilson and Fields both hold the football long in the pocket and will need an improved offensive line to thrive in 2024. Steeler Nation will watch and see if Moore can continue to improve.