By Sunday 
Pittsburgh’s future looks bright as Zach Frazier and Payton Wilson earn national recognition for their standout rookie performances in 2024.
A Glimmer of Hope in a Challenging Season
The 2024 season may not have ended the way the Pittsburgh Steelers or their fans had hoped, but it wasn’t without its bright spots. Among the most promising developments was the emergence of two standout rookies—center Zach Frazier and linebacker Payton Wilson. Their impressive first-year performances earned them well-deserved recognition on ESPN’s 2024 All-Rookie Team, a testament to their immediate impact and potential future roles in the franchise.
Zach Frazier: Anchoring the Offensive Line
Zach Frazier’s path to becoming a starter wasn’t part of the Steelers’ original plan. Slotted behind veteran Nate Herbig on the depth chart, Frazier was expected to develop gradually. However, when Herbig suffered a season-ending rotator cuff injury before the regular season, Frazier was thrust into the spotlight.
Despite the pressure, the rookie center excelled. Starting 15 games, Frazier showcased both poise and technical skill beyond his years. ESPN analyst Ben Solak praised him, saying, “Zach Frazier is exactly what teams want at the pivot. He identifies defenses well, looks for work in pass protection, and has quick hands and feet.”
According to Pro Football Focus, Frazier earned an impressive overall grade of 76.8, ranking sixth among all qualified centers. His pass protection was solid, but his run-blocking ability stood out even more, earning a 79.7 grade—the sixth-best in the league.
Solak also highlighted Frazier’s fit within Pittsburgh’s hard-nosed culture, noting, “Frazier is also a relentless finisher and a high-effort player, which is a prerequisite for playing offensive line in Pittsburgh and a great sign for his future as the leader of that line.”
Payton Wilson: Making the Most of Every Opportunity
While Frazier became a full-time starter, linebacker Payton Wilson played a more limited role, logging snaps on just 45% of the Steelers’ defensive plays. However, his impact was undeniable.
Wilson’s standout moment came during Pittsburgh’s only win against the Baltimore Ravens, where he recorded his first career interception—a highlight-reel play that energized the team. He also tallied two passes defended and forced a fumble, demonstrating his knack for making timely plays despite limited opportunities.
Although Wilson was placed on ESPN’s second-team All-Rookie list, his contributions didn’t go unnoticed. His instincts and athleticism hint at a promising future as he continues to develop into a larger role on the Steelers’ defense.
Building Blocks for Pittsburgh’s Future
In a season overshadowed by inconsistencies and challenges, the emergence of Zach Frazier and Payton Wilson offers Steelers fans a reason for optimism. Both players have laid the foundation for long-term success in Pittsburgh.
Frazier’s steady presence on the offensive line could provide the leadership and reliability the team needs moving forward, while Wilson’s dynamic playmaking ability suggests he could grow into a defensive cornerstone.
As the Steelers head into a pivotal offseason full of decisions on coaching staff changes, free agency, and draft strategies, they can be confident in the potential of these two rising stars. Frazier and Wilson aren’t just rookies—they’re essential pieces of Pittsburgh’s blueprint for success in the coming years.