With Starks, Steelers Mike Adams Will Thrive
A good bill of health from his doctor and one Tweet later, Max Starks found himself back on the Steelers roster. The big man from Florida inked a one year deal with the Steelers (financial details yet to be disclosed). The signing of Starks means good things for the Steelers and their young offensive line. There’s someone who can benefit more than the Steelers for this signing – and that person is rookie Mike Adams.
Shortly following the draft, the assumption was that Mike Adams would take over at left tackle – eventually and perhaps even immediately. With Starks recovering from ACL surgery and Jonathan Scott the only option at tackle without having to jockey a bunch of other linemen (like Willie Colon), Adams quietly and comfortably rolled onto the first squad during OTA’s and mini camps. A quick learner, Adams did well and impressed O-line coach Sean Kugler. And even though Adams looked like he was ‘the guy’ to protect our #7’s blindside in 2012, there were still numerous speculations (and still are) about a rookie starting in that position and being responsible for protecting the Steelers’ $100 million dollar investment.
We here at NPC have been saying for quite some time that it is imperative for the Steelers to re-sign the veteran tackle. The Steelers have a history of late of having an offensive line that can’t stay healthy for the majority of the season. Would YOU leave it up to Jonathan Scott to protect Big Ben if Mike Adams were to become injured? I think not, and to say the team/O-line is taking a step backwards by signing Starks is ludicrous. Quit drinking your Haterade and see the real value of this guy being on the roster. There’s experience, mentorship, and talent just waiting to contribute to this team. Age has nothing to do with it. If the guy can still use his feet and hands and block the pass rush then he’s doing his job… and doing it well.
The Kug’s a good coach, there’s no dispute in that. However, Starks has been in the trenches lately and can be there as not only a mentor for Adams, but also as someone who can push Adams by realistically competing for the starting job. There’s no guarantees in the NFL, and if Adams doesn’t look like he can be the starting guy, then without hesitation he’ll get bumped. He won’t get cut, unless his old habits with the Lady J creep back – but I strongly doubt that will happen. He’s a good project for the offense to develop. He has the potential to be a top notch left tackle, and I think Starks is the guy to help motivate and push Adams into that roll faster. I’m at ease to know he’s on the team should Adams win the starting job and later become injured. Starks was called upon last season and performed beautifully. I believe he could do it again if need be.
I’m sure Ben Roethlisberger is also happy on of his good buddies is back on the squad. He can go back to wearing his own jersey. Besides, I think Starks still owes him a wedding gift…..
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