Steelers' Broderick Jones Keeping Fans Hopeful After Learning From Pro Bowler

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded up in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft to select offensive tackle Broderick Jones. The Georgia product came to the Steel City with a bit of a project label on him because he didn’t have a ton of starting experience in college. However, his raw traits, rare athleticism, and physical upside gave the Steelers confidence that he could develop into a cornerstone player. 

Through his first two seasons, Jones hasn’t exactly inspired overwhelming confidence in the fan base, as inconsistency and growing pains were evident. His third season is shaping up to be a massive turning point in his career, and while there were early concerns, recent signs point to progress.

On Friday, former Steelers offensive lineman and two-time Super Bowl champion Trai Essex joined 93.7 The Fan to discuss Jones’ development and why he is starting to feel more optimistic about the young tackle. Essex, who knows what it takes to succeed in Pittsburgh’s trenches, acknowledged the challenges Jones has faced, but highlighted the strides he has made in technique and discipline. 

"He's getting more confident out there now. I still want him to punch a little bit more," Essex said. "If Broderick can incorporate some of that hand usage that [Andrus] Peat showed, Broderick's game is going to explode. He has the athletic ability, he has the footwork, and you can tell that he wants to be great. He wants to do well and so that's all it takes."

He believes the addition of veteran versatile lineman Andrus Peat has already helped Jones. According to Essex, Jones’ improved footwork and growing comfort within Arthur Smith’s and Pat Meyer's system are signs that he may be turning the corner at just the right time. For Steelers fans, hearing such confidence from a respected voice like Essex offers reassurance that Jones may be ready to shed his project label and step into a more reliable role. 

Protecting Aaron Rodgers and anchoring the offensive line will be critical for Pittsburgh’s success in 2025, and Jones’ growth could be one of the biggest X-factors of the season. If he continues to progress and gain consistency, he has the talent to transform from a question mark into one of the team’s foundational pieces moving forward.

Steelers' Offensive Line Play Must Be Great In 2025

If the Steelers truly want to turn heads and be viewed as legitimate contenders in the 2025 season, the offensive line must play at an almost flawless level. With 41-year-old Rodgers at quarterback, protecting him becomes the top priority. Rodgers is coming off an Achilles tear he suffered in 2023, and while he’s fully recovered, his age and durability remain obvious concerns. Keeping him upright will be absolutely pivotal if the Steelers hope to maximize their championship window.

That responsibility places a tremendous amount of pressure on Jones. For the first time in his career, Jones will have the opportunity to move into his natural position at left tackle, where he thrived in college. This shift was made possible by the Steelers’ 2024 first-round pick Troy Fautanu, who is now healthy and set to anchor the right side of the line. With that adjustment, the Steelers have solidified both tackle spots and put Jones in the best position to succeed.

Many analysts believe this change could unlock Jones’ potential and allow him to take the next step in his development. Playing on the left side gives him a chance to be more comfortable and showcase the athleticism that made him a first-round pick. If he can elevate his game, Jones could become a stabilizing force for an offensive line that will be critical to Rodgers’ success and, ultimately, to the Steelers’ hopes of making a deep playoff run in 2025.

Do you still have confidence that Jones can turn into a reliable tackle in the NFL? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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