Posted on Sep 30
Steelers starting right guard James Daniels sustains Achilles tear, out for the season
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Steelers starting right guard James Daniels suffers season-ending Achilles tear.
Why it matters: The loss of James Daniels is a significant blow to the Steelers' offensive line and could impact their ability to protect quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and establish a strong running game.
- With three season-ending injuries to offensive linemen and another sidelined player, the Steelers are facing a depleted unit that will require adjustments and new personnel.
- Daniels, a consistent presence since joining the team in 2022, has been a key part of the offensive line's success and will be sorely missed.
- This injury further highlights the importance of depth and the challenges teams face when dealing with multiple injuries in one position group.
What to watch:
- The Steelers will need to find suitable replacements for Daniels to maintain stability along the offensive line.
- Mason McCormick and Spencer Anderson, both draft picks, are likely candidates to step into the starting role.
- How the offensive line performs without Daniels will be closely observed, as their ability to protect Roethlisberger and create running lanes will greatly impact the team's success.
The bottom line: The loss of James Daniels adds to the Steelers' growing list of injured offensive linemen, raising concerns about the team's ability to effectively execute their offensive schemes. Finding capable replacements and maintaining cohesiveness will be crucial moving forward.