Steelers Have 3 Reliable Options At Left Tackle If Broderick Jones' Struggles Continue

The Pittsburgh Steelers just got underway at training camp, and admittedly, it’s way too early to label any serious concerns. Still, a few key storylines are already emerging, and one of the biggest involves third-year left tackle Broderick Jones. After a disappointing 2024 season, Jones enters camp with plenty to prove and a lot of pressure to turn things around.

All eyes will be on Jones throughout camp, and for good reason. The Steelers made a significant investment when they traded up to select him in the first round, expecting him to anchor the offensive line for years to come. If he doesn’t show progress soon, it’s going to be difficult for him to shake off the growing bust label. This is a critical year for his development, and the team needs him to take a big step forward.

As camp has gotten underway, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly has already pointed out some concerns with Jones’ performance. According to Kaboly, Jones has looked shaky in early practices, which is not the kind of start the team was hoping for. While it’s still early in the process, the pressure is on, and Jones will need to show improvement quickly if he wants to secure the starting job and live up to expectations.

"He's been very slow on the get off," Kaboly said. "He hasn't got off to a good start at all."

While two things can be true, Jones has gotten off to a slow start, but that doesn’t mean he can’t turn things around. Jones struggled during the 2024 season, and many fans expected that with Troy Fautanu returning to play right tackle, Jones would move back to his natural position at left tackle. That shift was supposed to help him settle in and make a leap forward, but early signs from camp suggest the same issues may still be lingering.

If those reports continue and Jones struggles both through the remainder of camp and into the regular season, the Steelers may need to explore the trade market for a veteran left tackle. There are some potential options available, especially from teams that have younger prospects ready to take over starting roles. In that case, General Manager Omar Khan would likely target experienced players who can step in and stabilize the position quickly.

Steelers fans will have to wait until the pads come on before drawing any firm conclusions about Jones. However, patience is already starting to run thin. If the coaching staff decides they need outside help, there are some possible names to watch out for.

1. Kelvin Beachum

Beachum is an interesting name to start with. The veteran currently sits behind a promising young tackle on the Arizona Cardinals' depth chart, which could make him available. At 36 years old, he’s nearing the end of his career, but a reunion in Pittsburgh could make sense. Beachum began his NFL journey with the Steelers, and bringing him back for a short-term role might offer some much-needed stability and leadership on the offensive line.

2. D.J. Humphries

Another intriguing option is Humphries. A former Pro Bowler in the 2021 season, Humphries is now 31 and currently serving as the backup left tackle for the Los Angeles Rams. While injuries have slowed him down in recent years, he still has plenty of experience and could be a reliable insurance policy. If Jones continues to struggle, Humphries is the kind of player Khan might look at as a stopgap starter or a veteran mentor.

3. Geron Christian

Lastly, there’s Christian, a 28-year-old lineman with a Super Bowl ring to his name. While he doesn't have much recent starting experience, Christian could provide dependable depth and veteran presence at left tackle. 

Steelers Should Keep Their Options Open As Camp Continues

All three of these players are realistic options, along with other veterans who may be stuck behind younger talent on their current teams. As camp continues, all eyes will be on Jones to see whether the Steelers truly need to explore one of these moves.

Do you think the Steelers should acquire an external option at tackle? Be sure to comment below!

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