The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their injury-riddled offensive line by signing veteran lineman Max Scharping to their active roster. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on October 1 that the Steelers poached Scharping from the Washington Commanders‘ practice squad, taking advantage of NFL rules that allow such moves as long as the player is added to the 53-man roster immediately.
Scharping, 28, brings experience to a Steelers line in dire need of reinforcements. He previously spent two seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he appeared in 31 games, mostly in a reserve role along the interior offensive line and on special teams. His time in Cincinnati gave Pittsburgh’s coaches plenty of chances to evaluate him, making him a natural fit for the team’s current needs.
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With both starting guards Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels sidelined—Daniels due to a season-ending Achilles tear sustained in Week 4—Scharping’s arrival couldn’t come at a better time. Pittsburgh is also without veteran lineman Nate Herbig, who tore his rotator cuff during training camp. The Steelers have been forced to rely on relatively inexperienced backups Spencer Anderson and Mason McCormack, who have combined for just four career NFL starts.
Scharping brings a solid resume, including 33 starts over three seasons with the Houston Texans, who drafted him 55th overall in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He predominantly played left guard before transitioning to the right side in his final year with Houston. While Scharping’s overall grades from Pro Football Focus have been average to below average throughout his career, he showed glimpses of strong play in a small sample last season, making him a valuable addition to Pittsburgh’s ailing line.
As the Steelers prepare for their Week 5 matchup, the hope is that Scharping’s veteran presence can help stabilize an offensive line struggling with injuries. Whether Seumalo returns next week or not, Scharping gives Pittsburgh a reliable option who could see immediate action.
