Pittsburgh Steelers C Zach Frazier has already established himself as one of the best players at his position just two years into his career. While Frazier has been good as both a run blocker and a pass blocker, his pass blocking has been a bit better than his work in the run game. Appearing on The Pomp And Joe Show on 93.7 The Fan, Ray Fittipaldo believes that Frazier’s work in the run game could catch up to his pass blocking thanks to a new scheme and coaching staff.
“The run blocking was up-and-down. I think that was moreso, and I’m not saying Zach is perfect, I just think that whole scheme under Arthur Smith and Pat Meyer, it left a lot to be desired. So I think in a different system, I think you’re gonna see Zach become a better run blocker as well.”
Last year, PFF graded Frazier as the fifth-best pass-blocking center and the 11th-best run-blocker at the position. Both of those marks are solid, but it would be a major boost to the Steelers’ offensive line if Frazier can be unlocked even more. James Campen is a veteran offensive line coach with a history of getting the most out of his players, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he helped Frazier take his game to another level.
The Steelers’ run game was generally solid, albeit at times inconsistent under Pat Meyer and Arthur Smith. If Campen and Brian Angelicho can improve that aspect of the offense, it will allow Aaron Rodgers to operate with less pressure. The Steelers have two talented running backs in Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, and the run game should be a strength in 2026.
Improving the run blocking as a whole, especially from Frazier at the pivot, would be huge for Pittsburgh’s run game success. It’ll be interesting to see how things look and what has changed when training camp begins in just under two weeks.
Frazier has two years left on his rookie deal, and he’ll almost assuredly receive an extension from the Steelers after this season. If he can take his run blocking to another level, his contract could creep toward the contract that Tyler Linderbaum signed this offseason with the Las Vegas Raiders. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Frazier become one of the highest-paid centers in the NFL, and his continued ascension could help Pittsburgh’s offense take a big step forward.
Recommended for you