The Pittsburgh Steelers boasted one of the healthiest groups of offensive linemen in all of 2022, fielding the same starting five for over 99% of offensive snaps. 

Problem is, that group, specifically at the tackle position, performed below championship-level standards, and as we know "the standard is the standard" in Pittsburgh. 

So while we have grown to appreciate Mike Tomlin's cliches and canny answers, his latest remarks regarding the offensive line may leave you scratching your head. 

At the league's annual owner meetings, the subject of tackles was broached to which Mike Tomlin offered the following answer regarding how happy he was with the duo protecting Kenny Pickett:

"Happy is a dangerous word,” Tomlin said, “I’m comfortable."

Now thinking the Steelers would make a play at right tackle, unseating "Chuks" Okorafor would be presumptuous, considering the team just re-signed him last season. 

But left tackle is a whole different story. 

Dan Moore Jr., is under contract through the 2025 season, but his base salary doesn't even reach the seven-figure mark until 2024, making him an easily replaceable option as he ends his rookie deal. 

And giving Credit where it's due, Moore has vastly outperformed his draft positioning as a fourth-rounder out of Texas A&M, evident by his performance bonus just a few weeks ago. 

But that position needs to be better, no, it has to be better if you want to truly see what Kenny Pickett is capable of. 

Moore Jr. generated a PFF grade of 62.4, while being top 10 in both penalties (8th) and sacks allowed (7th). 

Now as I stated, Moore Jr. is a solid player and the perfect swing tackle, his play makes him a viable sixth man, especially given his durability. 

Coach Tomlin seems to agree, saying the following about Moore Jr:

“He is mature beyond his years,” Tomlin said. “He brings a professional approach. He has proven to be durable and available, which are big things. He works to eliminate mistakes and that speaks to continual improvement. I just like what he has done and it all stems from his mature and professional approach to business that allowed those things to transpire.”

But if you took away the microphones, and sat down inside the walls of the UPMC Sports Performance Complex, I have a feeling Tomlin, Weidl, and Khan (assistant GM and GM respectively) know they lack a franchise left tackle. 

And we don't have to ponder, we know the Steelers were and likely still are interested in upgrading the pivotal position, with a report they were in talks surrounding a potential Orlando Brown Jr., trade. 

So maybe this is just a coach being a good coach and backing the guys in the building. 

But with free agency over and the draft approaching, perhaps this was a hint that left tackle may not undergo the change we think.