Steelers Sophomore Season Outlook: Broderick Jones

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a very productive rookie class in 2023. Looking to 2024, they hope to enjoy a second-year leap from the same group of players. That starts with Broderick Jones, the team’s first pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Pittsburgh traded up with the New England Patriots to draft Jones 14th overall, securing who they hope to be their left tackle for the next decade.

Broderick Jones Sophomore Season Outlook

Rookie Season Recap

Despite Pittsburgh trading up in the draft to acquire Jones, it was understood he would not be an instant starter. With potential through the roof, Jones was still raw. The Steelers were confident enough in their pairing of Chukwuma Okorafor and Dan Moore Jr. that Jones started the season on the bench. Jones was inserted into the starting lineup for two games in Week 4 due to an injury to Moore before moving back to the bench. In Week 9, after Okorafor was benched, Broderick Jones moved into the starting lineup permanently, this time at right tackle.

Strong Run Blocker

When Jones was on the field, the Steelers run game was noticeably better. Down the stretch of last season, as Pittsburgh made their push for the playoffs, their rushing attack was dominant. Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris were both very productive and the offensive line looked great in the run game. Jones was a big component of this rushing success. His athleticism allows him to easily get out in space and to the second level. His hands are strong, helping him secure numerous pancake blocks along the way.

Pass Protection

Pass blocking is the area where Broderick Jones needs the most improvement heading into 2024. He wasn’t necessarily bad in that regard, but he has a lot of growing to do. Physically, the tools are there for Jones to become a dominant all-around tackle. Technically, he needs improvement, but Pittsburgh knew that when they drafted him. As Jones gets more reps and more coaching, he will become a more technical and smarter pass blocker. He held his own for a raw rookie playing out of his natural position; Jones is meant to be a left tackle.

Looking Ahead to 2024

In an ideal world, Jones would be the Steelers left tackle entering the 2024 season. While talking to the media, Omar Khan left no doubt the Steelers drafted Jones to be a left tackle and will move him back there eventually. Mike Tomlin, though, is not so sure that move will occur in 2024.