How Should The Steelers Proceed With Isaac Seumalo?

Photo Credit: Karl Roser/Pittsburgh Steelers

Over the past three seasons, Isaac Seumalo has logged 2,638 offensive snaps and allowed just six sacks, establishing himself as one of the most reliable and technically sound linemen on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster. Since arriving in 2023, he’s been more than a starter—he’s been a tone‑setter, a communicator, and a veteran anchor for a young offensive line. His leadership has been repeatedly highlighted by coaches, especially during stretches when the Steelers were forced to shuffle tackles and rely on inexperienced players.

The last two seasons, however, have introduced a new variable: durability. Since 2024, Seumalo has missed seven games with various ailments, including time spent on the Non‑Football Injury list during the 2025 preseason and multiple in‑game exits throughout the year. If anything, these setbacks have opened the door for Spencer Anderson, who proved to be a tremendous asset for the Steelers’ offense—particularly in jumbo sets where the team found success running the football.

At 33 and currently an unrestricted free agent, the Steelers face a pivotal offseason decision: do they continue relying on a proven but aging veteran, or hand the reins to a younger lineman who has shown promise but not yet a full season of starter‑level consistency?

In one respect, bringing back Seumalo would give the Steelers’ offense immediate stability at a position where experience matters.

If new head coach Mike McCarthy chooses to break in a young quarterback such as Will Howard while reshaping the team’s offensive identity, having a veteran guard who understands protections and can adjust on the fly is no small luxury. A short‑term, incentive‑laden deal could allow them to retain that leadership without overcommitting financially, buying time for Anderson or a rookie to develop behind a trusted veteran.

On the other hand, the Steelers have made it clear in recent years that they want to get younger, more athletic, and more durable along the offensive line. Anderson’s emergence gives them a viable in‑house option who has already shown he can handle NFL speed and physicality, aligning with the youth movement across the rest of the unit.

In addition, this year’s draft class offers several guard prospects who fit the team’s long‑term vision. Moving on from Seumalo would free up cap space, open a starting job for a player entering his prime, and align with the broader organizational trend of building through youth. The downside to either of these paths is the short‑term growing pains that often come with turning the page at a position as critical as left guard.

With a new offense, a new coaching staff, and a clear push toward youth make it difficult to justify bringing back a 33‑year‑old guard with recent durability concerns. His leadership and technique are valuable, but the team’s direction points toward players who can grow within McCarthy’s system. With Spencer Anderson emerging and a strong draft class available, Pittsburgh appears well positioned to reset the left guard spot and build for the future.