Steelers' Offensive Line Struggles Again, Raising Camp Physicality Questions

Mike McCarthy’s first training camp in Pittsburgh has looked noticeably different from what the Steelers experienced under Mike Tomlin. The practices have been more clinical, with a greater emphasis on fundamentals, footwork, and communication rather than the physical nature that often defined Tomlin’s training camps.

That raises a fair question after another poor performance from the offensive line. Could the lack of physicality during camp be contributing to the unit’s struggles?

It is too early to make that connection definitively. The Steelers are also trying to build continuity with a revamped offensive line, and that process takes time. Players need to learn how to work together, communicate, and develop the chemistry necessary to handle pressure as a unit.

Still, the lack of physical reps is something worth monitoring as the preseason continues. The offensive line cannot afford to remain a weakness once the regular season arrives.

Offensive tackles will be tested in this offense

Another notable aspect of McCarthy’s offense is how much it can ask from its offensive tackles. His system has traditionally placed significant responsibility on tackles to hold up in pass protection, often leaving them in one-on-one situations against opposing pass rushers.

That is not unusual in the NFL, but it makes the Steelers’ tackle play particularly important. Fautanu showed improvement Friday, but the group still needs to become more consistent.

If Pittsburgh wants this offense to succeed, its tackles will have to win those individual battles. The preseason is giving them valuable opportunities to prove they can do exactly that.