It seems the plan of easing Maurkice Pouncey into the starting center spot is once again at full speed, as today he worked with the first team, and there continues to be more whispers that Justin Hartwig may be a guy that has to fight for a playing time, and maybe even a roster spot?
In yet another sign that Maurkice Pouncey is the center of the present and future -– and that Justin Hartwig’s days in Pittsburgh are numbered -– the rookie first-round draft pick worked exclusively with the first-team offense Wednesday. Talking to reporters following the Steelers’ first practice of the week, Pouncey wore a broad smile and said, “Hopefully, I’ll get that same smile tomorrow. I’m happy.” Hartwig made it clear that he is not as he declined to talk after practice, saying he had to lift weights. Hartwig’s reaction is understandable considering he has started 35 consecutive games at center. But there is no denying that the Steelers won’t be able to keep Pouncey off the field this season, and that he is a potential star at center. The former Florida star has picked up responsibilities such as making blocking adjustments at the line of scrimmage even quicker than the Steelers coaches had hoped.
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Jay
August 26, 2010 at 7:24 am
That might be good news for some of the steelers’ youngsters who are on the cusp of roster spots whether they be offensive linemen or at other positions. No, I would never revel in the demise or relinquishing of another man’s occupation but I would also never expect someone to feel sorry for me if I made millions of dollars and then someday didn’t…Besides, Hartwig could be another team’s very valuable backup o-lineman if he doesn’t make this roster.
DrGeorge
August 26, 2010 at 8:14 am
Hartwig is an undersized center who gives the Steelers all he has and is a good guy off the field too. I respect him for that. But the business of pro football has little room for nostalgia, and a Super Bowl ring and big money assuage some of the pain of parting. In reality, Hartwig is probably less effective than Pouncey or Legursky at Center at this time, and he is not a good fit at Guard. He may be retained as insurance against injury to Pouncey. If he is released, he will only be one of many very talented players the Steelers will be forced to cut by September 4. Many of our late cuts will make other rosters; they are that good, and the Steelers are that deep. In other words, for Hartwig to stay, another quality player is going to have to go.
lkwdsteel
August 27, 2010 at 7:22 pm
$3.7M is one expensive insurance policy – especially when Legursky and Urbik can play center.
Hartwig, your time is done. I will often think back at your high lights like the holding for a safety in the SB, or the thousands of times you were blown up by the NT’s in our division. Good times, but like most over paid mediocre players who rose to their position because their predecessor was of the likes of Mahan – fame is fleeting. Good bye, and thanks for all the fishes.