There’s a strange sense of irony when a fanbase clings to the development of an offensive lineman with the same energy usually reserved for a star quarterback or a flashy wide receiver. But for the Pittsburgh Steelers, that’s exactly what’s happening — and with good reason.
As the Steelers enter a critical 2025 season under the watchful eyes of fans and analysts during OTAs, one player is quietly becoming the anchor of their offense: second-year offensive tackle Broderick Jones.
After a chaotic offseason that saw Pittsburgh offload both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields — only to bring back Mason Rudolph and draft Will Howard — questions have loomed large over the quarterback position.
Add in the still-lingering drama of Aaron Rodgers' pending decision and the jaw-dropping trade of George Pickens to Dallas, and the offense feels like it's in a blender.
The departure of Pickens shattered what could’ve been a nightmare-receiving duo with DK Metcalf. Suddenly, all eyes are on the players who were never supposed to be stars — the ones who have no choice but to step up.
Enter Broderick Jones.
The Pittsburgh Steelers need Broderick Jones to have a spectacular 2025 campaign
The former first-round pick spent his rookie season out of position at right tackle, enduring growing pains and battling to stay in the starting lineup. The frustrations were visible, and you could tell he wasn’t comfortable — but he never backed down.
Now, Jones is finally back at left tackle, his natural home, and the transformation is palpable. Watching him during OTAs, there’s a different energy in the way he moves, a visible confidence that feels infectious.
It’s a spark the Steelers desperately need.
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Fans might not typically rally behind an offensive lineman, but Steelers fans know better. They understand that without Jones, Kaleb Johnson and Jaylen Warren won’t find daylight in the run game.
Without him, the new quarterback, whoever it ends up being, cannot feel safe in the pocket. Jones isn’t just filling a role. He’s becoming the foundation.
In a season defined by change, uncertainty, and high stakes, I believe Broderick Jones is the most vital piece of Pittsburgh’s offense. His success helps the Steelers. It also might be the only thing that holds this new-look unit together.
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