Steelers' recent first-rounder could reportedly be on the outside looking in as a Week 1 starter

When drafted in 2023, Pittsburgh Steelers OT Broderick Jones was brought in to be a franchise cornerstone.

The left tackle of the future, Jones was the first of five selections along the offensive line in 2023 and 2024.

And while there is plenty of blame to go around when it comes to his development or lack there of at this point of his career, he may be the one fronting the bill.

Jones To the Bench?

"Athleticism isn't the issue for Broderick Jones, but the technique, the timing, when to punch," said Steelers reporter Ray Fittipaldo via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's North Shore Drive podcast. "The entire theme of this preseason for Broderick Jones - giving up ground and getting pushed into the quarterback. I know a lot of people don't want to hear this, but if it's me, if Fautanu is healthy, I'm sticking with Dan Moore based on what l've seen the last couple of weeks."

Jones didn't let up a sack and was seldom in trouble during the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, but it has to be noted that the Lions played all second and third-teamers.

The first two weeks of the preseason weren't nearly as clean for Jones however, as the second-year starter has seemingly regressed when comparing his 2024 play to the second half of his rookie campaign.

The key to Fittipaldo's statement is Troy Fautanu. While he played in only one preseason game, during which he sustained an MCL sprain, he's currently on track to be ready and start Week 1 for Pittsburgh.

There is also Dan Moore Jr. to consider, who while often the brunt of criticism, has arguably been the most stable of the tackles through the preseason.

But in reality, Pittsburgh knows some of Jones' issues have been brought on by their own doing.

Drafting a tackle that was raw at his natural position of left tackle, and deciding to flip him to the right side has certainly been a choice and one that Pittsburgh will be second-guessing if Jones struggles in the regular season.

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