2023 Steelers Training Camp Preview: Could Ryan McCollum Become The Team's Backup Center?

When viewing the Pittsburgh Steelers roster as it is currently constructed, depth at the center position is one that is in need of attention. Behind starter Mason Cole, the expected backup is 2021 third-round pick Kendrick Green. Yet, there is one other player that fans may become familiar with when training camp begins in late July.

Third-year center Ryan McCollum enters this year's training camp with little to lose and much to gain. During his four years at Texas A&M, McCollum played a total of 43 games. From 2018 to 2020, McCollum logged a total of 1,471 offensive snaps, 690 of which came in his senior year.

What is impressive to note is how efficient he was as both an interior offensive lineman and a center. During that three-year period, McCollum allowed just two sacks and 11 quarterback hits. In his senior year, he played all 10 games at center and did not allow a single sack, with five quarterback hits and six quarterback hurries.

Even with Green's return to the center position, McCollum could still challenge for a backup spot, as he brings to the table a decent amount of experience as an NFL center.

What could determine his future on the team, however, is his availability. If healthy, McCollum could see his chances improve to win a spot on the team's active roster.

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