Could Zach Frazier Become The NFL's Top Center This Season?

Photo Credit: Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 draft class yielded several outstanding players, one of whom has the potential to become one of the best in his position.

Despite the numerous challenges faced by the Steelers' offensive line last season, center Zach Frazier was undoubtedly a standout performer. From his very first game against the Atlanta Falcons, Frazier quickly established himself as the anchor of the Steelers' offensive front. By the end of the season, he had accumulated 975 offensive snaps, conceding only one sack and allowing just 12 quarterback pressures.

This past week, Dalton Wasserman of Pro Football Focus published his list of players he believes have the potential to become the best at their respective positions in the upcoming season. Among those named was center Zach Frazier. While Kansas City's Creed Humphrey currently holds the title as the premier player at the position, Wasserman acknowledged the possibility of Frazier narrowing the gap. He noted that if Frazier can improve in a specific area and the team's offensive line remains healthy, he could significantly elevate his performance.

"Kansas City’s Creed Humphrey still holds a firm grip on the top spot at the position, but Frazier has a chance to close the gap. His 60.2 true pass-blocking grade ranked 13th among centers, and that’s likely where he’ll need to improve most. A healthier offensive line around him in 2025 should also help, after Frazier anchored a unit that battled injuries throughout last season."

If there is one area in which Zach Frazier excelled last season, it was run blocking. His 79.7 run-blocking grade, as reported by Pro Football Focus, ranked sixth among centers. Based on all available assessments, his pass blocking is expected to improve in the upcoming season as he gains more experience.

Overall, if the Steelers' offense can make meaningful strides in the right direction—particularly by securing the right quarterback—there is reason for optimism. As for Frazier, he is expected to remain a steady and dependable presence in the middle of the offensive line this season.