As we’ve done in previous years, we’re taking a look at Pittsburgh Steelers who are on Reserve/Future contracts for the 2026 offseason, as well as what we can expect from them during training camp and (hopefully) into the regular season. Today, an outlook on OG Steven Jones.
Steven Jones/OG Oregon – 6052, 342 pounds
When offensive line coach Pat Meyer made his way to Eugene, Oregon, for the Ducks’ 2024 Pro Day, it was likely with center/guard Jackson Powers-Johnson in mind. But he came away noting teammate Steven Jones. He’s the one who ultimately made the trip to Pittsburgh.
Jones had good tape and caught our eye during the pre-draft process. A mountain of a man at 6’5, 340 pounds, with nearly 35-inch arms, he showed good feet and the ability to pull. Our scouting report noted his limitations but ended with a positive conclusion.
“Steven Jones is a wide-bodied blocker with good strength and powerful hands, a bit more athletic than his testing suggests, and plays with an aggressive demeanor. He’s better than his projection, barely discussed, and viewed as a draftable candidate,” we wrote at the time, comparing him to Nate Herbig.
Despite Meyer’s trip, Jones’ NFL career began in Jacksonville as an undrafted free agent with the Jaguars. After the 2024 season ended, Pittsburgh inked Jones to a Reserve/Future contract. Carrying him throughout 2025’s spring and summer, Jones was durable and available throughout training camp. He played guard and tackle, filling in gaps when injuries hit the offensive line and depleted depth. His performance was only satisfactory, but the moment didn’t seem too big for him, either.
In preseason action, Jones showed off his physicality.
Steven Jones (No. 79) showing how to find work when uncovered. Couple of 2nd half slabs to help his RG out.
He's a big guy with power and tackle/guard versatility. Should stick to the PS. #Steelers pic.twitter.com/02Ca5o9G05
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) August 23, 2025
While those reps came at tackle, our summer report noted his lack of foot speed was a real problem in defending the edges. Jones fits best at guard, where his size and strength can be the focus while minimizing his athletic limitations.
Guard has a vacancy. Isaac Seumalo left for Arizona, and the Steelers haven’t filled it with a clear starter. Instead, the job may come up for grabs. Even knowing the team is likely to draft a candidate on Day One or Two, Steven Jones should act as if he’s part of the competition. Becoming Pittsburgh’s starting guard out of the gate in 2025 is doubtful, but he can compete for the eighth or ninth spot on the 53-man roster. Needing to show versatility, picking up reps at left guard would be ideal. There’s just enough intrigue in his game to have me interested for 2026’s training camp, and Jones has a chance to kick down the door and push to make the Active/Inactive roster.
Recommended for you