Steelers' Offensive Line Outlook Looks Bright With Broderick Jones Update

The Pittsburgh Steelers are back in action in Latrobe with training camp starting up. With practice beginning and everyone reporting, there has been plenty of new stories coming out of the organization. With some critical players heading to the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, a significant one avoided that designation in Broderick Jones. 

The offensive tackle is back in action after he suffered a neck injury late last season. With plenty of questions regarding the starting line, getting some clarity on the status of Jones is very important; and now he has the chance to compete through camp. 

His old spot at left tackle looks to be taken by Troy Fautanu, but he still has the opportunity to fight for a starting spot on the right side. That battle could be completely up for grabs between Jones, Dylan Cook, and rookie tackle Max Iheanachor.

Getting that update about Jones' health helps improve the options Pittsburgh has to work with entering the season. This is quality time for him to get back into the full swing of things. 

That isn't all fans need to hear to be convinced with Jones though. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly stated today on his show, Kaboly + Mack, that there's something else he's waiting on to really consider if this is good news yet. Jones being back itself is positive, but to really be convinced about him, his weight is the update he is waiting on.

"That whole right side now is still a question mark, although they got some good news yesterday, we’ll see today how good of news it really was," Kaboly stated. "If Broderick is 250 or if he’s back up to 300, I think he’s a wild card; you throw him in there. You don’t know what you’re getting with Iheanachor. Could be good could not be good, who knows, it’s a rookie tackle, its tough. Is Dylan Cook a one-month wonder? Did Broderick Jones enter the chat and have an option to steal that job or at worse, be a swing tackle. I think this is positive news for the Steelers here if he’s able to go out there and play."

Being injured, it's not easy for a player like Jones to maintain his weight. That requires a big routine to follow, one that will be affected by a neck injury, preventing strain from heavy lifting and other activities. While he is on the field practicing again, his weight will play a major role in if he is productive or not. If he wants any chance at starting and helping the Steelers win immediately, that needs to be back up around where he was prior to getting hurt. 

Additionally, he is behind most of the healthy players on the line. While he participated in some activities in Organized Team Activities (OTAs), his recovery limited him. Getting this update on his weight and more will tell a lot about where he stands at the moment, aside from what is already reported about him fully practicing.

After the Steelers declined his fifth year option for 2027, Jones has a lot to put on the line this season. He is showcasing everything as he goes for a brand new contract in free agency, which also depends entirely on if he gets on the field. 

Jones could secure a big deal if he gets decent playing time and does well, especially if its at right tackle. He has already shown the league that he can hold his own on the left side and now that spot is taken up by Fautanu, getting on the field on the right side will showcase versatility that can help in negotiations. 

Steelers' Jones Playing For A Big Contract In 2026

Jones speaking to the media should answer most of the questions that many are wondering, but with what is out now, it's very good news to know that he's back at practice and healthy. Time will tell what's next for Jones as his future is very dependent on what he does this fall.

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