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Pouncey said it felt great to be back on field for #Steelers today. First time since knee injury for football related activitiez
— Dale Lolley (@dlolleyor) May 27, 2014
The Steelers' offensive line looks to be the strongest unit the team has had in years. One of its best contributors, Maurkice Pouncey, looks to be able to lead that unit just eight months after a significant injury.
Pouncey, who suffered a torn ACL in Week 1 last season against the Tennessee Titans, was on the field today in the Steelers' OTAs, his first organized activity since the injury. Pouncey went to three straight Pro Bowls before the injury ended his 2013 season just eight plays into it.
Pouncey claims that his knee feels great and that there are no restrictions on him or his availability. Fellow offensive linemen, Ramon Foster, was "shocked" at what Pouncey was able to do after suffering the injury last August.
G Ramon Foster said he was surprised how much ahead of schedule Pouncey is. Said he was "shocked" at some of the things he was already doing
— Ray Fittipaldo (@rayfitt1) May 27, 2014
With newly hired offensive line coach, Mike Munchak, it is great to see Pouncey participating and without restriction. Now that he is cleared to participate, keeping the Pro Bowl center healthy and not having a set back is vital.
The Steelers are looking to return their running game to elite status behind Le'Veon Bell and LeGarrette Blount, but for that to happen and be successful, they will need Pouncey at center. His participation is a big step in the right direction.