Max was released prior to camp due to his over 400 lbs weight and with Tomlin comfortable with Jonathan Scott has his left tackle. Trai was seen as expendable with the mix of younger and older players the Steelers had at guard such as Chris Scott, Kemoeatu, Foster and Legursky.
Poor play along the line, especially at the left tackle spot forced the Steelers to bring back Starks who dropped down to his normal playing weight of 345 lbs. The Steelers seen an instant difference in the running game and passing game as Starks brought a huge frame and veteran leadership to a young group. Starks has started eleven games this season after being jobless through the first five weeks of the season.
Essex didn't have the same immediate impact as his impact has come in these later weeks. With injuries and inconsistent play, the Steelers have been forced to mix up their offense line constantly and Essex has been huge for this reason. Essex has played every position on the line at some point since being signed in week two. Essex could very well start at center in the final game of the season at Cleveland due to injuries to Pouncey and Legursky.
Essex and Starks have been huge for the Steelers and could help the Steelers in a big way as they head into the post season and seasons to come. With the emergence of rookie right tackle Marcus Gilbert, Pouncey, Starks and even Essex could help solidify what has been an inconsistent line.
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