Steelers add Mahan

The retirement of Jeff Hartings left the Steelers with some uncertainty for next season in the pivot.  The addition of young veteran Sean Mahan adds insurance across the interior line heading into spring workouts. 

Mahan lacks ideal size and power, but is a decent athlete who understands the game well.  He relies a lot on technique and will struggle at times against top competition when his technique is off.   His versatility allows him to play both guard spots and center.  The Tampa Bay staff always like his potential in the pivot, but spent most of his career filling in at guard when injuries hit the Buccaneer offensive line. 

Chukky Okobi has long been thought of as the successor to Hartings at center, but the Steelers are protecting themselves.  Okobi has always been a reliable reserve with his smarts and understands the line calls, but never has been technically sound and might wear down over the course of the season.  There are also some people within the organization who want to see Kendall Simmons take a shot in the pivot.  If Simmons would move to center, Mahan would likely step in at right guard. 

 

 

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