The Pittsburgh Steelers traded up in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Broderick Jones, who played left tackle in college, and many expected him to continue in that role in the NFL. However, Jones has been playing out of position, spending time at both tackle spots, and has primarily been used as a right tackle in 2024. Some fans are concerned that the Steelers may be setting Jones up for failure by playing him out of his natural position.
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Steelers offensive tackles Dan Moore Jr. (65) and Broderick Jones (77) practice against each other during the team's 2023 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Jones had a rough preseason and has been dealing with an arm injury. In Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, he struggled significantly, drawing three penalties in just six plays—an uncharacteristically poor performance. After the game, Jones acknowledged he needed to improve.
Steelers rookie Troy Fautanu was named the starting right tackle, relegating Jones to the bench. However, after Fautanu suffered a likely season-ending injury, Jones now has a chance for redemption. Former Steelers great Maurkice Pouncey, on Ben Roethlisberger's podcast Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger, defended Jones, pushing back against the idea that playing both left and right tackle is detrimental to his development, emphasizing the value of gaining experience at both positions.
"If you're stuck in one position, I'm telling you right now, you're not only hurting yourself, but you're hurting the team," Pouncey said. "There's only seven linemen that actually go there on a gameday that you guys can count on to go out and replace a guy if he gets hurt. So I think Broderick has to do a good job of accepting, like, man, listen, you're a tackle. Like, you're gonna be a swing tackle in every position. Maybe you go in as a big tight end on some plays. Like understand the game of football, it's bigger than one position."
Pouncey would know better than anyone, and his endorsement of Jones should ease concerns among Steelers fans who’ve been frustrated by Jones playing out of position. Pouncey emphasized that Jones’ experience at both left and right tackle is invaluable, especially in a league where versatility is crucial. According to Pouncey, Jones’ ability to play multiple positions should be seen as a major asset for the team, not a liability.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones sit in their lockers before Week 1 against the Falcons.
There was considerable concern about Jones following his shaky performance against the Broncos, where he drew three penalties in just six plays. Many wondered if he could rebound from such a tough outing. However, Jones answered those doubts with a much-improved showing in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Given an opportunity due to Fautanu’s injury, Jones stepped up, and fans were pleased with how he performed under pressure.
Steelers' Broderick Jones Played "Phenomenal" In Week 3 According To Maurkice Pouncey
Jones’ solid performance against the Chargers wasn’t just noticed by fans—it was also praised by Pouncey, who graded his play as phenomenal. This marked a significant turnaround for the young tackle, but the Steelers will need him to keep that momentum going as they prepare for Week 4.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers offensive tackle Broderick Jones lines up against the Cincinnati Bengals during a regular season game in the 2023 season.
With Fautanu out for the foreseeable future, the Steelers are relying on Jones to continue improving and solidify his role on the offensive line. As they face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Jones will need to have another strong game to help protect Justin Fields and keep the offense on track.
If he can build on his success, the Steelers' decision to invest in him will begin to pay off, and Jones could become a key piece for the team’s future. Some pundits are starting to believe Pittsburgh could be true contenders.
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