Leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft starting on April 27th, we will be releasing several draft profiles of prospects who could potentially see themselves on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Next up...
Broderick Jones (Offensive Tackle), Georgia, Redshirt Sophomore
Broderick Jones stands in at 6'5" tall, weighing 311lbs, and is the one of the most explosive prospects in the entire draft.
Mark J. Rebilas | USA Today Sports
Broderick Jones looks to get out on the edge and make a block during the 2023 College Football Playoffs.
Overview
Usually when you watch the Georgia Bulldogs play, there are so many talented players that you're looking all around the field. When Jones and the rest of the offense was on the field however, it was hard not to be drawn to him absolutely demolishing opposing defensive lineman. He amassed 12 "big-time" blocks in the run game alone last season, which was tied for second among offensive tackles in college. Jones' combination of power and means streak will have offensive line coaches salivating to get their hands on him.
While Jones has tantalizing traits, he definitely has some room to grow in terms of his technique and hand usage. Being a starter for only one full season, it is to be expected that Jones isn't a finished product just yet. He has an incredibly strong punch, when it lands, but his punches miss more than you'd like to see and he doesn't always latch on afterwards. That along with his desire to constantly go for a kill shot, resulting in him lowering his head at times are things he will have to improve upon to be a consistent force at the next level.
Pros:
- Incredibly explosive
- Great build, looks like a hefty tight end and less like an offensive lineman
- Demeanor and mean streak are what every lineman should have
- Great movement skills, can get on the edge or to second level
- Stunt recognition is good for someone with his experience
- Can demoralize defensive lineman with his run blocking
Cons:
- Bends at the waist too often
- Hand technique needs refined
- Benefited from heavy play-action offense, limited experience in true pass blocking sets
- Athleticism and strength allowed him to recover more than he will in NFL
- Ducks head at times going for the kill-shot
Mark J. Rebilas | USA Today Sports
Broderick Jones takes on Alabama pass rusher Will Anderson Jr.
The Steelers offensive line continued to grow throughout the 2022 NFL season, and looked to be one of their strong points by the end of the season. However, the organization could still look to secure an upgrade in the 2023 NFL Draft. Jones is one of the top tackle prospects in this draft, and Steeler Nation would love to have him protecting Kenny Pickett's blindside for the next decade. The Steelers brought him in for one of the 30 pre-draft visits, so he could definitely be in play for them.
Hand Technique and Footwork
Considering his limited experience to the other top tackles in this draft class, it isn't surprising that his technique isn't on the same level. Jones' technique is far from bad, but it definitely is where more seasoned defenders are able to take advantage of him at times. He tends to punch from the outside in, which results in a slow punch and his hands not always landing/stunning the defenders consistently. If he gets beat his footwork struggles as he can panic to recover. Now, this is nit-picking, but as a top 20 pick this is where he has the most room to work.
Mobility
Being a very good and very explosive athlete, Jones has no issues getting on the edge or climbing to the second level. He has a very good build that has plenty of room to add weight if he desires, and makes some of the larger offensive tackles look out of shape compared to him. Jones can build up a head of steam in a hurry which can lead to some very successful blocks on edge defenders or linebackers. He is exciting to watch when he is able to use his athleticism to the fullest extent.
Mark J. Rebilas | USA Today Sports
Broderick Jones sets up in pass protection in the 2022 College Football Playoffs.
Power and Strength
For a player who doesn't look quite as big as some of the other tackles in the draft, you don't see any issues on tape in terms of play strength and power in the run game. Being tied for second in big-time blocks last season, shows he has the ability to knock defenders off their feet frequently. Being an explosive athlete, he is able to pair his power with sudden bursts and overwhelm defenders. Jones has occasionally struggled with power rushes in the pass game, but that seemed to be more related to technique than any strength issues.
NFL Comparison - La'el Collins
There aren't many "exact" comparisons for Jones, as while he has good length, he is on the smaller side for offensive tackles. Collins is a similar player who even started his NFL career at guard before moving back out to tackle. Both are exceptions run blockers with very good explosiveness to overwhelm defenders. Jones is a better athlete than Collins, but Collins was more refined coming out of college.
Draft Projection - First Round
Jones is likely a top 20 pick, and has a chance to be the first offensive tackle off of the board depending on if a team falls in love with his demeanor and strength.
Let us know below what you think about Jones as a prospect and the potential of seeing him in the black & gold! What other prospects would you be interested in seeing a profile on? Click to comment below!
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