The Pittsburgh Steelers' season got off to a rough start when they suffered a significant 30-7 defeat against the San Francisco 49ers. Unfortunately, the Steelers offensive line seemed to be outmatched and overwhelmed by their opponents, leading to an outcome like this one. During the game, the Steelers conceded a staggering nine hits on their quarterback and five sacks throughout the game. However, this unfavorable situation could potentially work in favor of Broderick Jones, as it highlights the need for improvement and adjustments within the team's offensive strategies.
Matt Durisko / AP Photo
Steelers receiver George Pickens takes a hard hit from San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner during their Week 1 game.
After this loss, the Steelers are now without multiple players due to injuries, including offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor. Head Coach Mike Tomlin reported that Okorafor entered concussion protocol, which will result in possible changes to the Steelers offensive line if he can't go on Monday night against the Cleveland Browns. Dan Moore Jr., the starting left tackle, switched to the right after Okorafor was injured and Jones entered the game on the left. Okorafor needs to successfully complete all five steps of the protocol in order to be eligible to participate in the upcoming game against the Browns. Consequently, if he is unable to play, Jones is expected to make his debut by starting in Okorafor's place.
Moore himself had a rough game and was ranked the worst offensive tackle during Week 1 by Pro Football Focus. His pass-blocking grade of 22.8 ranked among the lowest in the entire league, painting a grim picture of his performance; to put it mildly, his Sunday afternoon proved to be an arduous experience. The impending recovery period of Okorafor will play a pivotal role in determining which side of the offensive line Moore will be assigned to. Should Okorafor still be undergoing the necessary concussion protocol, Moore might also find himself back on the field next Monday night, tasked with the responsibilities of the right tackle position.
Steelers.com
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. is fighting for his starting spot in 2023
In a recent tweet regarding Okorafor's ongoing concussion and Moore continuing to assume the left tackle position, Moore acknowledged that Jones seems to possess a more innate ability to perform effectively on the opposite side of the line compared to himself.
With Chuks Okorafor still in the concussion protocol, Dan Moore Jr. said he’s still taking practice reps at left tackle, while Broderick Jones is working at right tackle. Moore said Jones is more of a natural in playing on the other side of the line than he is.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 14, 2023
Moore spoke in reference to Jones and his continued growth thus far.
“He seems a lot more natural at right than I do. I don’t think it’s that much of a transition for him. He seems to be taking it on a lot better than I was.”
Both Jones and Moore played left tackle in college, and Moore has stayed at that position for his first three NFL seasons. While Moore possess sufficient athletic skills to fulfill the responsibilities of an offensive tackle, his hand strength and placement vary in both running and passing situations, leading to a loss of control during plays. It is evident that he has made progress in his position and does not possess any significant athletic or physical deficiencies. Nevertheless, he may not excel in any specific category, making it challenging for him to rise beyond the role of a reliable backup.
Offensively, Najee Harris was limited in his ability to carry the ball during the game against San Francisco, primarily because his team was consistently behind on the scoreboard. As a result, Pittsburgh's performance was negatively impacted. However, if Pittsburgh aims to revert to their primary focus on running plays, Jones' exceptional skills as a blocker in the running game could play a vital role in the team's overall execution this season.
Screenshot from Steelers.com
Pittsburgh Steelers 2023 first round draft pick Broderick Jones meets with the press for the first time.
Steelers' Jones Can Help Kenny Pickett Moving Forward
If the Steelers stick with the pass-focused strategy they exhibited in their game against the 49ers, Jones could very well succeed in this aspect. Throughout his first year as a rookie, Kenny Pickett struggled with throwing more interceptions than touchdowns and only managed to average about 200 passing yards per game. Accordingly, Jones and the offensive line will play a crucial part in assisting him in his development as a notable quarterback. Their main responsibility will be ensuring that the quarterback remains protected while he tries to make successful completions with his receivers, including Darnell Washington, George Pickens, and other targets within the Steelers' receiving corps.
What did you think of the performances from both Jones and Moore? Do you think they will step up this Monday with the possible absence of Okorafor? Leave your thoughts in the comments!
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