While Aaron Rodgers’ situation regarding his future in the league has not changed, his presence with the Pittsburgh Steelers is still not confirmed. Despite this, the team made an interesting move in its protection unit, signing a new center and waiving an offensive lineman.
After his final season with the Michigan Wolverines and an intriguing rookie minicamp, center Greg Crippen has officially signed with the team. While Mike McCarthy already has Zach Frazier and Ryan McCollum, he now adds a new player for potential contingencies.
Frazier led the line in 2025 by allowing only one sack, while McCollum provided reliable backup depth. The arrival of Crippen now adds a vital interior alternative to further improve Aaron Rodgers‘ protection for the upcoming season.
In the same move, Sataoa Laumea had a different fate, as he was waived after arriving in January from the New Orleans Saints. Laumea was already far down the depth chart at left guard, so the team ultimately decided to move on from him.
Zach Frazier #54 and Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
QB protection for the Steelers
For the upcoming 2026 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ offensive line is expected to feature a blend of established young starters and key additions from the 2026 NFL Draft. Troy Fautanu is projected to anchor the unit as the primary tackle, likely joined by Broderick Jones, though his availability is being monitored due to a recent neck injury.
The interior will see Zach Frazier continuing his role at center, supported by free-agent addition Brock Hoffman and recent signee Ryan McCollum for depth. The team further bolstered the group by drafting Max Iheanachor in the first round and Gennings Dunker in the third, both of whom are expected to compete for immediate roles to ensure better protection for the quarterback.
Troy Fautanu #76 works out alongside Dylan Cook #60 of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rodgers’ best protector is no longer there
During the 2025 season, Aaron Rodgers led the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense with 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, maintaining a solid 94.8 passer rating. Despite his age, he remained efficient under pressure, though he was sacked 29 times throughout the year.
The most consistent protection came from left guard Isaac Seumalo, who was the team’s top-rated offensive lineman, and recently joined the Arizona Cardinals. Seumalo earned an elite 78.5 pass-blocking grade from PFF—ranking fourth among all NFL guards—while allowing only 20 pressures over 504 pass-blocking snaps.
