The Pittsburgh Steelers received devastating news ahead of their Week 3 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. Rookie starting right tackle Troy Fautanu, who had just returned from injury, was placed on Injured Reserve Saturday after suffering a knee injury in practice the day before. This setback opened the door for Broderick Jones, giving him a chance to redeem himself after a rough Week 2 performance against the Denver Broncos.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones sit in their lockers before Week 1 against the Falcons.
In Week 2, Jones struggled mightily, playing just six snaps but earning three penalties that stalled the offense and wiped out a big play. Heading into the Chargers game, there was understandable concern about his ability to step up as a starter. However, Jones delivered a respectable performance on Sunday, showing improvement despite some visible confusion and a few mistakes.
After the Steelers’ 20-10 victory, Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media and was asked about Jones' play. Tomlin didn't go out of his way to praise Jones but he did mention that he was proud of how responded.
"As I mentioned at the early portions of the week, I expected him to respond positively and appropriately and he did."
The Steelers' offensive line has been hit hard by injuries this season. It began with center Nate Herbig being ruled out for the year, followed by Isaac Seumalo missing time. Now, with Fautanu expected to miss the remainder of the 2024 season, the pressure shifts to Jones, who will likely have to step in as the starting right tackle for the rest of the year.
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Broderick Jones working during a practice.
The Steelers traded up in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Jones, a raw and somewhat inexperienced prospect, but one whose talent and potential caught the attention of NFL scouts. While Jones still has areas to improve, he's shown flashes of his ability to make an impact. After a rough outing against the Broncos, where he struggled and earned criticism from fans who were quick to label him a bust, Jones had a chance to redeem himself.
Despite early doubts, Tomlin was pleased with how Jones responded in Week 3, acknowledging his improvement. Though there's still work to be done, Jones' growth will be crucial for the Steelers as they navigate the rest of the season with a depleted offensive line.
Steelers' Broderick Jones Has A Solid Game In Week 3
Jones was thrust into a difficult position, having to step in as the starter on short notice. The original plan was to have Dan Moore Jr. start at left tackle and Fautanu at right tackle, but Fautanu's injury gave Jones an opportunity to bounce back and prove his value to Steelers fans. While it wasn’t a flawless performance, Jones showed improvement, cleaning up many of his mistakes and delivering a respectable outing.
Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press
Steelers offensive lineman Broderick Jones speaks to the media in Pittsburgh at the UPMC Sports Complex during his introductory press conference.
The Steelers are hopeful that Jones will continue to build his confidence and progress as the season unfolds. With the offensive line already dealing with key injuries, getting back to full strength will be critical for Pittsburgh’s success. Fortunately, the Steelers have started the season strong, winning their first three games, and they’ll be counting on Jones to keep improving as they push forward.
Justin Fields delivered another exciting performance, continuing to make the most of his opportunity as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback. Although Russell Wilson was named the starter to begin the season, he has missed all three games, allowing Fields to step up and lead the Steelers to three straight wins.
Fields was efficient, completing 25 of 32 passes for 245 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. Despite being sacked twice, he managed the game well and continues to build momentum, fueling the growing belief that he deserves to keep the starting job. Steelers fans were also encouraged by Jones' improved play, as the young tackle bounced back from a tough Week 2 outing. With continued growth from both Fields and Jones, Pittsburgh looks poised for further success this season.
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