The Sporting News’ “Preseason All-Pro Team” Includes Maurkice Pouncey and David DeCastro on “Also-Watch Lists”
May 21, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive linemen Mike Adams (76) and David DeCastro (66) and Maurkice Pouncey (53) participate in organized team activities at the UPMC Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Last Thursday, The Sporting News released their 2013 “NFL Preseason All-Pro Team.” Although no members of the Steelers garnered first-team “All-Pro” honors, both Maurkice Pouncey and David DeCastro were named to the “Also-watch lists” at the center and guard positions.
On one hand, I was not surprised to see that Pouncey at least made the “Also-watch list” at center. The 18th overall selection from the 2010 draft has made the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons in the league, and has been the anchor of Pittsburgh’s offensive line since he entered the league. As long as Pouncey is able to stay healthy this fall, then I see no reason why he should not contend for an All-Pro selection.
I was however surprised to see that David DeCastro made the “Also-Watch List” at the guard position. While there is no question that DeCastro is talented enough to earn such an honor, he did only play in three games last season due to an MCL injury. Watching the guard’s progress this season will be downright fun though, and the former Stanford star did a solid job against the Giants last Saturday in Pittsburgh’s preseason opener.
Final Thoughts
If Pittsburgh’s offensive line can gel around the likes of Pouncey and DeCastro this fall, then I am downright stoked to see a marked improvement from a unit which has beleaguered the team during the last half decade. Of course, it will take more than solid performances by Pouncey and DeCastro for the offensive line to become a strength this fall. I just hope that Ramon Foster, Mike Adams, and Marucs Gilbert can emerge alongside both players and give the Steelers an even more formidable offensive line in 2013.
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