McCormick Could Help Shape the Identity of the Steelers' Offensive Line

For Mason McCormick, the action he saw in his rookie season was, for the most part, unexpected.

Few would have predicted a season-ending Achilles injury for James Daniels, but it happened. McCormick made his debut in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts. From that point on, the then-rookie blossomed into one of the most physical and colorful offensive linemen on the team. Alongside standout center Zach Frazier, both were recognized among the best rookie offensive linemen in the NFL last season.

With Daniels leaving for the Miami Dolphins in free agency, McCormick faces little competition for the starting spot at left guard. Last season, he started 14 of 17 games and played 939 offensive snaps. Within those snaps, he performed admirably, allowing only two sacks and 21 pressures on 523 pass-block snaps. Even a broken hand didn't stop him from playing the final game of the regular season against the Cincinnati Bengals. Unfortunately for the Pittsburgh Steelers, they missed his presence in their Wild Card matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, where the offensive line surrendered four sacks, most notably on the interior to Nnamdi Madubuike.

This upcoming season represents McCormick's opportunity to establish himself in the same manner Frazier has done as their franchise center. As the Steelers' offense continues to search for an identity, McCormick's infectious energy and high motor could be key in building it, while they strive to elevate their play within the offensive line. Over time, the importance of McCormick's presence will continue to grow as he evolves as a player.