The Pittsburgh Steelers were undoubtedly thrilled with the outcome of the 2024 first round of the NFL Draft. With quarterbacks and wide receivers flying off the board, the Steelers saw their preferred options align perfectly with their draft position. Despite the tempting choices available, their sights were set on bolstering their offensive line.
Their decision came to fruition when they selected Washington offensive lineman Troy Fautanu with the 20th overall pick. This strategic move garnered widespread acclaim from pundits across the league.
Adding to the excitement, Trai Essex, a two-time Super Bowl champion offensive tackle for the Steelers, shared his insights on the team's first-round selection during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan. There have been debates about Fautanu’s versatility. Many believe he could line up in every position on the line. Essex was asked where he would line up Fautanu on the line.
"If I had to play a game tomorrow, I would be like Broderick at left tackle and put Troy at right tackle. But dude, these guys are so position-flexible these days. Broderick [is] obviously able to come in at right tackle, hadn't done it at all at Georgia… He was able to adjust and impose his will at the right side, even though he was mostly a left tackle.”
Essex is of the opinion that Fautanu has the potential to excel on the right side of the line, while Broderick Jones could thrive on the left. Notably, the Steelers made a bold move in the 2023 draft, trading up to acquire Jones. However, upon his debut as a starter, he found himself playing in a position that wasn't his usual forte. Essex sees the selection of Fautanu as an opportunity to realign Jones with his natural position, potentially optimizing his performance.
"These kids, once they get into camp, and I think when Coach [Pat] Meyer get after 'em, gets to see how they move and how Arthur [Smith] wants to really focus his offense on. Are we going to be a more predominantly right-side running team and is that choice specifically versus what the quarterbacks want to do in the RPO type game? All that stuff is going to come out in training camp and OTAs and all reveal itself. But right now, I wouldn't pigeonhole either one into either of those spots."
Essex believes it's premature to assign Fautanu to a specific position or side of the line. He contends that once Pat Meyer takes charge of coaching and the Steelers solidify their offensive scheme, the optimal positioning for Fautanu will naturally reveal itself. He expresses confidence in the Steelers' coaching staff to make the right call regarding his placement.
Exuberant in his praise, Essex lauds the Steelers' decision to draft Fautanu as nothing short of fantastic. He describes it as a stroke of luck for the team to have their preferred choice readily available. Surprised by Fautanu's availability at the 20th pick, Essex is impressed by his versatility across the offensive line and admires his capacity to embody the rugged, aggressive style of Steeler football.
Steelers’ Arthur Smith Gets A Boost With Their Round 1 Selection
With Arthur Smith now on board, the Steelers are poised to heavily emphasize the running game. Their aspiration is that Smith's expertise will enable them to sustain longer offensive possessions and cultivate more consistent drives. Prioritizing a robust running game, supported by a formidable offensive line, is key to achieving this objective.
Smith's success with the Tennessee Titans was anchored in a run-centric approach, often incorporating extensive play-action plays. Such a strategy demands a formidable front line in the trenches. The Steelers' concerted efforts to bolster their offensive line underscore their commitment to revitalizing their offense.
While their defense boasts a solid veteran lineup, the focus on enhancing their offense in 2024 signals a clear intention to elevate the team's overall performance. With improvements in place, many anticipate the Steelers emerging as a formidable force in the upcoming season.
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