Young Steelers Defender Believes Teammate From 2023 Draft Class Is Ready For Huge Year In 2025: "Big Things"

The Pittsburgh Steelers moved up in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Broderick Jones. The hope was that he would grow and become a major part of the offensive line for years to come. During his rookie season, Jones showed flashes of potential, but many Steelers fans believe he took a step back in 2024. His play at right tackle drew criticism, and questions emerged about whether he was being used in the right role.

Jones is a natural left tackle, a position he played throughout college, but he has spent his first two NFL seasons on the right side. With the addition of Troy Fautanu, who is expected to start at right tackle, the Steelers are finally giving Jones the opportunity to move back to the left side. Many believe that this switch will make a big difference, giving Jones the chance to play with more confidence and consistency in a role that suits his strengths.

Now heading into his third season, Jones is in a position to make a real leap. His teammate Nick Herbig has voiced strong support, saying he believes Jones could be in for a breakout year in 2025. With the position switch and a fresh start, the Steelers are hoping Jones can finally become the dominant force they envisioned when they traded up to draft him.

"I think Broderick is like a natural left tackle," Herbig said. "He’s very athletic, he’s strong, he can move. He has all the tools and I expect big things out of him this year."

Steelers fans have been fairly critical of Jones, especially after his inconsistent performance during the 2024 season. While there were signs of growth as the year progressed, many still believe he fell short of expectations. 

From the moment the Steelers selected him in the first round, there were questions about whether he would need time to develop before becoming a reliable starter. His rare combination of athleticism and size sparked excitement among NFL scouts and the Steelers' front office, but he has not yet lived up to that potential.

During the 2024 season, Jones clearly struggled, and his inconsistent play did not go unnoticed. Steelers fans and media personalities frequently took to social media to vent their frustration, with some labeling him a bust and calling for the team to move on. The criticism was loud and often relentless. However, those closer to the team, including Herbig, continue to believe in Jones’ potential. They envision a strong bounce-back campaign in 2025 and see this upcoming season as a turning point for the young tackle.

As the team prepares for the 2025 season, there is renewed hope that Jones can take a significant step forward. Many believe that moving him back to his natural position at left tackle could play a major role in improving the offensive line. Herbig has voiced his belief that this change could make a real difference, both for Jones and for the offense overall.

Steelers' Broderick Jones Entering Into A Make Or Break Season In 2025

The 2025 season will be a critical one for Jones. In May of 2026, the Steelers will need to make a decision on his fifth-year option. That choice will likely depend on how much progress he shows this year.

Despite his rocky start, there are still people inside the Steelers organization who believe in his long-term potential. They see the move to left tackle as an opportunity for him to finally settle in and develop into the player they envisioned when they drafted him. If Jones can take advantage of that opportunity, he has a chance to become a key piece of the Steelers' offensive line for years to come.

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