2024 NFL Draft: Steelers select Center in second round

The Pittsburgh Steelers chose Zach Frazier, the center from West Virginia, as the 51st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Frazier, who visited the Steelers before the draft, has a strong record, playing in 47 games over four years for the Mountaineers. He started 37 games at center over the last three years and 10 games at left guard in his first year at West Virginia.

Frazier expressed his excitement about joining the Steelers, emphasizing the team’s rich history of outstanding offensive linemen and strong offensive lines. He sees his selection as something special, especially since the Steelers had already picked an offensive lineman in the first round. Frazier is eager to contribute to the team’s success, describing himself as a hard worker who will give his all to help the organization win games.

Frazier’s outstanding performance in 2023 earned him multiple accolades. He was selected as a first-team All-American by Action Network and received second-team honors from Sporting News, USA Today, SI.com, Fox Sports, and College Football Network. Additionally, he was named to the Associated Press third team All-American and Phil Steele’s list. Frazier was also a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy and a semifinalist for the Wuerffel Trophy and Jason Witten Man of the Year awards.

Despite not allowing a sack throughout the season, Frazier’s impact went beyond pass protection. He was part of an offensive line that propelled West Virginia to the top of the Power 5 in rushing yards, accumulating 2,976 yards, and tied for 11th in the nation with 32 rushing touchdowns. The team’s offensive line was also exceptional in pass protection, ranking second among Power 5 schools with only 10 sacks allowed. Notably, West Virginia was the sole Big 12 school to exceed 2,000 rushing yards in conference games.

Frazier’s transition to center at West Virginia was seamless, despite not having played the position in high school. His intelligence and background as a high school wrestler contributed to his success. West Virginia Coach Neal Brown praised Frazier’s development, noting his improvement in snapping the ball and his ability to read defenses. Brown credited Frazier’s natural strength and leverage, honed through wrestling, as key factors in his success on the football field.