The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Green Bay Packers 23-19. One of the main reasons why they were victorious was their running game. Pittsburgh managed to run for 205 yards despite averaging 90.5 yards per game. Rookie Broderick Jones became the starter two weeks ago and has already proven that he can be the next great tackle for the Steelers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers traded up to draft him in the 1st round
The Patriots had the 14th pick, the Jets had the 15th pick, and the Steelers had the 17th pick heading into the 2023 NFL Draft. The Steelers traded their 17th and 120th pick to the Patriots in exchange for the 14th pick. The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Broderick Jones in the 1st round, 14th overall.
There were rumors that the Jets wanted to draft Jones 15th overall, but Bill Belichick traded their pick to “mess” with the Jets.
Is that rumor true?
Even though the New York Jets needed an offensive lineman in the draft, that rumor appears to be false because there were reports that Will McDonald IV had a higher draft grade than Jones. They would have stuck with McDonald if Jones was still available.
Jones competed for the left tackle spot
Dan Moore and Broderick Jones competed for the starting left tackle spot during training camp. Moore took over in first-team reps and was named the starting left tackle. Jones entered his rookie season as the swing tackle.
Jones got significant playing time in Week 4
Right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor exited Week 1 with a back injury, and Jones played the last four snaps of the game at LT. Jones didn’t see any playing time in Weeks 2 and 3.
Jones got significant playing time when Moore went down with an injury during the first quarter in Week 4.
Jones got his first career start in Week 5
Moore was inactive in Week 5, and Jones got his first career start. Jones played well, finishing with a 74 PFF grade in the Steelers 17-10 victory over the Ravens.
Once Moore got healthy, Jones went back to the bench for the next two games.
Jones was named the starter for Week 9 after their RT got benched
Pittsburgh benched Chukwuma Okorafor for criticizing the play calling in their Week 8 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jones started in their victory over the Titans on Thursday Night in Week 9. Jones played well and started in their victory over Green Bay, playing well again.
What should the Steelers do with Jones?
Broderick Jones is the face of the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line, whether he plays left or right tackle. Pittsburgh should start him for the rest of the season, regardless of position. He is the most talented offensive lineman.
If Pittsburgh had started him in Week 1, their record would be better, and their running game may have more rushing yards.
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