Speculation About Steelers Targeting Zach Frazier in NFL Draft Intensifies After Recent News

The Steelers have often been mentioned as a logical fit for former Mountaineer Zach Frazier, but those talks will surely only heat up based on the latest news.

Pittsburgh cut center Mason Cole, the team announced on Friday. This is the fourth release the team has executed this offseason, following the releases of quarterback Mitch Trubisky, offensive tackle Chuks Okorafor, and punter Pressley Harvin III. Cole was set to enter the third year of a three-year deal that he signed in the 2022 offseason. By releasing him, the team saves $4.75 million while incurring $1.521 million in dead money, according to Over the Cap.

The Steelers are now without a starting center months before the 2024 NFL Draft. If the depth chart were released now, Nate Herbig would likely be there. James Daniels and Spencer Anderson can play at that spot, but there are other connections in free agency to watch. Titans center Aaron Brewer, who played under Arthur Smith, is a free agent. But if the Steelers do not sign a free agent, it’s almost a certainty they will be looking to draft a center with one of their top picks.

Yet another flashing sign from the Steelers screaming they are drafting a center. https://t.co/O9coguuGwu

— Mike J. Asti (@MikeAsti11) February 23, 2024

While there are several quality centers who could end up in Pittsburgh, reporters and insiders continue to suggest the Steelers are extremely high on Frazier. A recent piece by The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo detailed why the Steelers love Frazier so much.

“The Athletic’s draft analyst Dane Brugler has already mocked Frazier to the Steelers, doing so in the second round in his latest projection. And in Mobile, one league source said the Steelers “absolutely love” the center,” DeFabo wrote.

Steelers to Target Zach Frazier in Draft, ‘Absolutely Love’ WVU Product

The stout and physical Frazier is perfect for the Steelers’ diverse run scheme, and his leadership and smarts would fit well on the offensive line. One of the best centers in the country that would help the Steelers solidify their offensive line for whoever would play at quarterback next season.

And Frazier’s athleticism and angles on wide zone make him a wonderful fit into this group. And with the talented group showing up to the Senior Bowl, Pittsburgh took advantage of it, watching those lineman close.

And those impressive reps came in front of Pittsburgh, who are looking at tackle and center. Take it for what it’s worth, but it sure looks like the team is going to reinforce their offensive line.

Click here for more coverage of Zach Frazier, including mock drafts and following him throughout the NFL Draft process.

Parts of this story were taken from Nick Farabaugh and on our partner site Steelers Now.

Farabaugh also appeared with WVSN’s Mike Asti on an episode of his “Mike Drop” podcast to discuss the Steelers offseason and the idea of Frazier wearing Black and Gold in the NFL.