When we look back at the Pittsburgh Steelers 2022 offseason, the most underrated signing could be that of interior offensive lineman Mason Cole. Cole is a very talented young lineman who should have a great opportunity to start at either guard or center this season.
Cole spoke to reporter Teresa Varley of the team’s official site and made it clear he has some lofty goals for the season as far as running back Najee Harris and his numbers. Cole spoke very highly of Harris and wants big things for him.
“That is why you play offensive line, to turn around and hand the ball to a guy like that,” Cole said. “I was texting him and said we have to get you to 2,000 yards in a season. That is the goal.”
Last season Harris finished with 1,200 rushing yards but it wasn’t easy. Most of those yards came through Harris’ work and not the play of the offensive line. This is a huge reason why the Steelers signed Cole and James Daniels in free agency.
An efficient and productive rushing offense is going to be even more important this season with a new quarterback in place. We expect Cole to end up the starting center this season, pushing Kendrick Green either to guard or the bench.