The Pittsburgh Steelers’ most criticized player of the 2024 season very well could have been offensive tackle Broderick Jones. Pittsburgh made the aggressive move to trade up in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Jones in the first round. Jones entered that draft as an exciting prospect, but did have some red flags about his limited number of college starts. Many NFL pundits believed he had unlimited potential, but viewed him as a bit of a project. That projection has proven true through his first two seasons with the Steelers.
Associated Press
Steelers offensive tackle Broderick Jones working with offensive line coach Pat Meyer during the offseason.
Jones earned starting time in 2024, but struggled with consistency. He faced challenges adapting to the speed and strength of NFL defenses and was often played out of position, which added to the difficulty. While fans voiced frustration over his development, the Steelers continued to show patience, believing that Jones still has the tools to become a franchise tackle. His athleticism, work ethic, and raw power remain undeniable.
As Organized Team Activities have gotten underway, Steelers insider Mike DeFabo shared some exciting news after speaking with Jones. DeFabo reported that Jones has returned with a stronger build, sharper technique, and a clear determination to lock down the left tackle spot. Jones acknowledged that the learning curve has been steep but said things are beginning to click. If he can make the leap this season, it would be a huge boost for a Steelers offensive line that needs him to take the next step.
"Broderick Jones said he’s slimmed down this offseason," DeFabo wrote on X. "He played last year at about 325 and is around 305 now."
After speaking with Jones, DeFabo revealed that the young tackle has slimmed down by nearly 20 pounds this offseason. For Jones, shedding the extra weight is a significant step forward.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Broderick Jones speaks to members of the media.
It allows him to return to the core strengths of his game—quick feet, fluid movement, and improved agility in pass protection. That won't be Jones playing weight, but it will give him an edge in the offseason.
"He said that gives him a chance to gain weight during the season," DeFabo said. "Also should help him regain some mobility, which is the strength of his game."
It’s no secret that many Steelers fans were disappointed with Jones during the 2024 season. After flashing potential in his rookie year, expectations were high for him to take the next step. Instead, he struggled with consistency and appeared to take a step back in his development.
Much of that criticism stemmed from his performance at right tackle, a position that isn’t natural to him. Fortunately for both Jones and the Steelers, there’s good news on the horizon—first-round pick of the 2024 NFL Draft Troy Fautanu is now healthy and expected to take over as the starting right tackle.
With Fautanu in place on the right side, Jones will finally be able to return to his natural position at left tackle, where he played throughout his college career at Georgia. Many believe Jones’ difficulties in 2024 were largely due to being out of position. Moving him back to left tackle gives him the chance to rely on his instincts, footwork, and familiarity, which could be the key to unlocking his full potential.
Steelers Will Need A Big Season From Broderick Jones
Steelers fans are hopeful that a return to the left side will allow Jones to play with more confidence and consistency. The buzz heading into training camp is that the Steelers are optimistic about his progress and eager to see how he handles the transition. The 2025 season will be a defining one for Jones. By May of 2026, the Steelers must decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option, and that decision will heavily depend on his performance this year.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Broderick Jones during training camp.
If Jones can take a leap forward and solidify the left tackle position, it would not only secure his future in Pittsburgh but also provide much-needed stability to the offensive line. A strong season from Jones could be the difference between a unit that struggles and one that becomes a true strength of the team. All eyes will be on him to see if he can rise to the challenge.
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