Steelers' 2023 First Round Tackle Broderick Jones Continues To Struggle During Preseason Finale

The starting offense for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first two preseason matches of 2024 was completely underwhelming. The quarterbacks haven't lit it up, and the offensive line doesn't look like it's taken the steps forward that Steeler Nation expected. Broderick Jones, the Steelers' second year offensive tackle, had big expectations for 2024. Unfortunately, Jones severely struggled in the second week of the preseason, and it only continued on Saturday during their finale. 

On Saturday, the Steelers traveled to Michigan to play the Detroit Lions, which would be the final preseason game before the regular season is underway for Pittsburgh. After losing the first two preseason duels and struggling on offense, the Steelers' starters had some things to clean up. During their match versus the Buffalo Bills, Jones showed some alarming struggles early in the game which led to quarterback Russell Wilson being sacked multiple times. Jones needed to come out strong against the Lions to relieve the Steelers, but his poor play only continued. 

The offensive line was supposed to be one of the bright spots heading into the new season, as Pittsburgh's front unit has been one of the league's worst for years now. Between last and this year's new additions, the Steelers have a ton of talent and potential up front. Pittsburgh drafted another tackle in the first round this year in Troy Fautanu, who has already reportedly made his way into the starting lineup. 

With Fautanu becoming the Steelers' starting right tackle, Jones is expected to become the starting left tackle. Jones spent the second half of the 2023 season as Pittsburgh's right tackle, but many anticipate him moving over to the left side to relieve Dan Moore Jr. of his duties. 

The Steelers brought in new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, to help rebuild the line and the running game, but right now, it doesn't seem any different than the last few seasons under Matt Canada. 

Jones had a great rookie campaign last season, and it's very concerning seeing him struggle during the preseason. He has a huge role as their left tackle, and not many want to see Moore on the field again. Apparently, Jones has an arm injury, which could be the sole reason for his recent issues.

On top of that, the Steelers had center-quarterback exchange issues previously this preseason which needed to be cleaned up. Saturday in Detroit, rookie center Zach Frazier snapped the ball when Justin Fields wasn't prepared, putting the ball on the ground yet again. The offensive line has had some serious issues, which is a major problem considering this offense will only go as far as they go. 

Steelers' QB Competition Seemingly Put To Rest In Detroit

Saturday was a big day for both of Pittsburgh's quarterbacks, because it would ultimately decide who claims the starting job. Neither Wilson or Fields had impressed up to this point, but both QBs put points on the board versus the Lions. In Pittsburgh's opening drive, Wilson completed two passes to George Pickens for 26 yards, which would lead to a Cordarrelle Patterson 31-yard touchdown run. 

It now seems that it will for sure be Wilson as the starter in Week 1 versus the Atlanta Falcons, where Smith will look for some revenge against his former team. Wilson will be fighting to keep his job every week with Fields waiting behind him. The offense finally started to show some signs of life during the preseason finale, which hopefully will carry over into the regular season. The Steelers have a brutal second half schedule, so they need to start fast in the win column. 

How concerned are you about Jones and the offensive line? How will Wilson perform and lead the Steelers in the regular season? Let us know in the comments below.

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