Steelers Offensive Line Expert Reveals Why There's Still Reason For Optimism After Brutal Week 1

The Pittsburgh Steelers got their 2025 season off to a 1-0 start on the road against the New York Jets. The game didn’t go as planned in the eyes of many pundits who were expecting a low-scoring slugfest. Instead, Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Jets quarterback Justin Fields lit up the scoreboard in an unexpected shootout, with Pittsburgh pulling out a thrilling 34-32 victory. While Rodgers showed flashes of brilliance, much of the focus from fans and analysts shifted to the offensive line, particularly third-year left tackle Broderick Jones. After being drafted to anchor the line in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Jones was expected to take a major leap forward in his natural position, but Week 1 raised as many questions as it answered.

Jones’ performance drew heavy scrutiny, as he allowed three sacks on Rodgers in the opener. For a franchise that brought in Rodgers with the hopes of competing for a Super Bowl, the protection issues immediately became a hot topic of discussion. Analysts and former players alike pointed out technique flaws and lapses in awareness that stood out on film. Given the amount of talent Pittsburgh has invested in the trenches, the struggles reignited concerns about whether this group can hold up over the course of a grueling season. Fans were quick to voice their frustration online, worried that offensive line play could be the one factor that derails what should be a competitive roster.

However, former Steelers offensive lineman Trai Essex stepped in to provide a different perspective after reviewing the game tape. Taking to social media on Monday, Essex acknowledged the rough outing from Jones but also highlighted encouraging signs of progress that aren’t always visible in the box score. 

"Just got done grading the OL," Essex shared on his social media on Monday. "As Russ Grimm once told us as a group about reviewing film, it’s never as bad as you think and it’s never as good as you think.  Well, it was pretty damn bad in some spots, but you don’t score 34 points and throw 4 TDs passes without some good taking place."

Essex shared some insight he learned from his former Steelers offensive line coach, Russ Grimm. 

He made a strong point: while many fans have been overly concerned about the protection for Rodgers, the offense doesn’t score 34 points without doing some solid things up front. That’s why Essex isn’t ready to sound the alarm just yet.

"Bottom line: Young inexperienced OL did enough," Essex said. "Potential is there, but we can’t afford to wait on it. Big improvements needed this week."

Steelers' Offensive Line Still Has A Learning Curve

He pointed to moments of strong footwork, improved balance, and instances where this young group handled power rushers effectively. Essex reminded Steeler Nation that development with young players takes time and that one poor performance doesn’t define a season. His message offered a measured sense of optimism, reassuring fans that the offensive line has the potential to improve as the unit settles in and builds continuity.

This offensive line is young and full of potential, but it has to start clicking sooner rather than later. The average age of the Steelers’ starting offensive line is just 25.6 years, making it one of the younger units in the league. Pittsburgh has plenty of talent up front, and that group is gradually gaining valuable experience with each game. As the season progresses, the line should continue to improve, but the biggest concern remains the left tackle spot, where Jones still has much to prove.

What overall grade would you give the Steelers' offensive line unit for their performance in Week 1 against the New York Jets? 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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