Broderick Jones Has Earned His Turn
Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The Pittsburgh Steelers moved up to the 14th spot to select Broderick Jones, with hopes he would be the starting left tackle for the next decade. The All-American out of Georgia was a raw talent with the sort of size and athleticism that the Black and Gold covet at the position.
Through the first three games, playing time was scarce as incumbent Dan Moore Jr. manned the position. During that time, Moore graded out as the worst offensive lineman in the NFL.
Week 4 against the Houston Texans started the same, with Moore struggling to keep defenders on their side of the line of scrimmage and out of the quarterback’s lap. Early on Moore went down with a knee injury. In came Jones. With seemingly an entire city fixated on every snap, Jones showed up and played well. There were nervous moments, but the Steelers new left tackle settled in.
His first start, the Baltimore Raven presented a huge challenge. Jones didn’t blink and put together a splendid game against an extremely aggressive defense.
Brian Baldinger focuses on first NFL start of Broderick Jones on Sunday vs Ravens #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/YrZ0KoRjpJ
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) October 12, 2023
But hold the phone. With Moore now healthy, he was back at practice taking first-team reps. How head coach Mike Tomlin could even consider replacing Jones is mind boggling considering that Jones’ lone start looked better than any performance Moore has put on tape in the last three seasons.
Steelers left tackle Dan Moore back at practice, reclaims 1st-team reps over Broderick Jones. #Steelers #NFL https://t.co/wyY8wjiFPM
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) October 16, 2023
If they don’t want to play the guy, why did they move up to draft him? What has Moore shown them that screams, “We must have this dude at left tackle?” This should be the easiest decision of Tomlin’s year.
At this early point in his career, Jones run blocking is a standout strength. His punch at the point of attack and his ability to run his feet and finish blocks is a rarity for a man his size. His positioning in the run game allows him to use size to maneuver defensive lineman out of holes. Whether he is on a double team or reaching a 5-technique, Jones uses superior hand placement to help get his body in position to move defenders against their will. As he learns the offense and how to become a pro, his ability to dominate the line of scrimmage will grow.
If his size wasn’t enough, the standout rookie has the athleticism to match.
Take a look at this play against the Baltimore Ravens. While he doesn’t make solid contact with anyone, he gets downfield on a play away to cut off a backside defensive back. This Is the type of stuff you see from All-Pro and future hall of famer Trent Williams.
I know LT Broderick Jones doesn't make solid contact here but it's really fun watching an athlete like him run in space on this windback play.
Haven't seen that in a long time in Pittsburgh. And still able to get in the way to slow #26 down. #Steelers pic.twitter.com/LwIC6pdGCZ
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) October 11, 2023
While he has miles to go to be in the same class as Williams, the tools are there athletically.
Where Jones has struggled the most is in pass protection. While he does display elite athletic ability, blocking NFL defensive ends is a dramatic step up from even the best of the NCAA. The initial move, as well as the counter moves, come a lot faster than they do in the prestigious SEC conference.
NFL defensive ends are often the most athletic guys on a team, so being able to move his feet while punching will take time to learn at this elite level. But as you can see versus the Ravens, he is catching on. What separates him from Moore is that he doesn’t constantly give ground on his pass sets. He is able to sit down in a “chair” and stop a bull rush while also being nimble enough to move his feet on spin moves.
#Steelers fans should absolutely be excited about what Broderick Jones displayed against the Ravens in pass protection. Still has a ways to go but the flashes are there. pic.twitter.com/OE8D47vr1Z
— Steelers Network (@SteelersNetwork) October 10, 2023
The Steelers have a decision to make, but let’s be honest, it’s an easy decision. Jones is a better tackle than Moore. The tape never lies. In the one and three-quarter games Jones has played, the tape has shown he has been superior to Moore. You moved up to draft him. He sat and waited his turn. When he got his opportunity, he clearly out-performed the underachieving starter. The time is now for Broderick Jones.
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