The Pittsburgh Steelers are onto a new week of the preseason after a successful opening game Thursday night. Head coach Mike McCarthy ushered in his new era of Steelers football with a win. However, even McCarthy will tell you there’s a lot to work on following this preseason contest. In addition to multiple penalties, the starting offensive line got off to a tough start. Notably, left tackle Troy Fautanu had a rough showing as he allowed pressures, a sack, and was called for holding. One Steelers beat writer is a little concerned about the third-year veteran.
Ray Fittipaldo joined 93.7 The Fan and was clear: There’s a little reason for concern. That concern could be a thing of the past if Fautanu bounces back, but Fittipaldo sees some concerns growing early.
"I don't know at what point we become really concerned. Like the talent is there, we know he is transitioning to the other side … These false start penalties happen often and he gets pulled and somebody else goes in. It happened again last night. That hold, he just didn't have good position. The running back could go in or out there so it's a tough block, but it was an obvious hold, just can't do that. … Eventually, the talent is going to shine through, but I'd be lying to you if I said I wasn't at least a little bit concerned at this stage of training camp." Fittipaldo said.
Fautanu is the best choice at left tackle, but there will be growing pains
Fautanu’s struggles should be viewed in the context of his unusual transition. He played left tackle at Washington, where he established himself as one of the best offensive linemen in college football. However, the Steelers moved him to right tackle as a rookie, forcing him to learn a new position on the professional level.
Now, Fautanu is moving back to the left side, where he is most comfortable. Even though it is technically his natural position, adjusting back to left tackle after spending his first two NFL seasons on the right side can create some growing pains.
Still, the Steelers should remain committed to Fautanu at left tackle. His talent, athleticism, and experience make him their best option at the position. One preseason performance should not change that. If he settles back into his natural spot, Fautanu has the potential to become a long-term fixture on the Steelers’ offensive line.
James Campen will have him ready for the regular season
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The Steelers also have an experienced offensive line coach in James Campen to help Fautanu through the transition. Campen has a long track record of developing NFL offensive linemen, having helped nine players become seven-year or more starters between 2007 and 2017, with five eventually earning Pro Bowl honors.
That experience should benefit Fautanu as he works through the technical adjustments of returning to left tackle. Campen can identify the issues from Thursday night, correct them in practice, and make sure Fautanu enters the regular season playing with greater consistency.
Fautanu has plenty to clean up, but there is no reason to panic after one preseason game. The Steelers need to give their young tackle time to settle into his natural position.
