Steelers' Troy Fautanu's Return Allows Broderick Jones To Validate First-Round Value

Offseason programs are officially underway for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It's been a whirlwind time period for the team, filled with major headlines and constant discussion surrounding roster changes. Now, with Organized Team Activities (OTAs) beginning, players have the opportunity to sharpen their skills on the field, while also stepping in front of the media to address ongoing storylines and share their perspectives.

These offseason programs and media opportunities give players a chance to demonstrate their growth from past seasons, whether they're bouncing back from injuries, or simply aiming to improve on underwhelming performances. Steelers tackle Broderick Jones is one of those players looking to take the next step. Jones has had to juggle multiple positions along the offensive line to support the team’s needs. Speaking to the media and shared in an article by Mike DeFabo for The Athletic, Jones expressed his enthusiasm about finally getting the chance to focus on developing in his primary position.

"They tried to make me the swing tackle (last year)," Jones said. "It was kind of funky. I knew I’ll be going back to left, so this offseason, I just tried to focus on nothing but the left side."

Jones was forced to shift roles early in his career and adapt to playing multiple positions on the offensive line. This continued after Steelers tackle Troy Fautanu went down with an injury last year. Selected 20th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Fautanu first suffered a sprained left knee during the preseason opener against the Houston Texans, causing him to miss the remainder of the preseason. He returned to start in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, delivering a solid performance with no sacks allowed, no penalties, and no pressures over 55 offensive snaps. However, during a practice session prior to Week 3, Fautanu sustained a dislocated kneecap, leading to his placement on injured reserve and ending his season prematurely. Despite the setback, Fautanu has been working hard on his recovery and is now participating during the Steelers' OTAs, aiming to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

Jones has faced several challenges since arriving in Pittsburgh. Selected in the first round of 2023 with high hopes, his early NFL journey has been marked by inconsistency. The constant changes and lack of a steady role along the offensive line disrupted his ability to find a rhythm and gain confidence, resulting in uneven performances. However, with a more stable role on the horizon and key teammates returning from injury like Fautanu, Jones now has an opportunity to concentrate on developing his game and showing why he was originally considered a first-round talent. 

While continuing his conversation with the media, Jones expressed that he's already feeling more at ease, and the added stability has given him a noticeable boost in confidence. With the offensive line under close scrutiny this season, his positive outlook provides some much-needed reassurance for both coaches and fans.

"Being back on the left, I feel like it’s a bigger boost for me, just because I’ve been used to playing on the left side," Jones said.

In recent years, the Steelers’ offensive line has struggled to meet expectations, largely due to numerous injuries and the adjustments that come with them. The unit now features a blend of veteran and young players who are learning from one another and building chemistry. If they can stay healthy, there’s strong potential for significant improvement compared to last season.

Steelers' Offensive Line Has New Weapons To Protect

The Steelers have been active this offseason, making several key changes on the offensive side of the ball. Although much of the attention has centered around the uncertainty at the quarterback position, the team has also made impactful additions elsewhere. One of the most notable is the arrival of explosive wide receiver DK Metcalf, giving the offensive line a dynamic playmaker to block for and creating new opportunities in both the passing game.

In the ground game, the Steelers used their coveted third-round pick to draft running back Kaleb Johnson. With no second-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft due to the trade for Metcalf, Johnson's addition carried even more weight for the team. He’s expected to bring an explosive presence to the backfield, aligning with the explosive offensive scheme that Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith is aiming to implement this season.

What are your overall expectations of the offensive line in 2025? Comment below!

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