One observation from the Pittsburgh Steelers first official depth chart post-cuts is that rookie center Kendrick Green is not the starter. Instead, second-year lineman J.C. Hassenauer earned that right.
Selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft, Green worked with the Steelers first team during the preseason, but was not impressing the brass.
Short of going out to find a more talented center, Hassenauer has the experience head coach Mike Tomlin wants from a player at such a critical position — at least to start the season. Hassenauer was part of the Steelers 2019 practice squad and signed to a one-year deal in March. In place of the injured Maurkice Pouncey, Hassenhauer was sufficient in four starts last year.
Things can always change with 13 days until the Pittsburgh Steelers kick off their 2021 season in Buffalo — but it’s doubtful.
