The Steelers might have to make a difficult decision, one that could not only affect their current draft plans but also mean the end for a former first-round pick's tenure in Pittsburgh.
According to a report by ESPN, Broderick Jones suffered a setback to the neck injury he sustained last season. Now, Jones is set to have an exam this week to determine whether or not he'll be ready for the start of training camp and/or the regular season.
Jones had fusion surgery to repair the injury, which are wildly unpredictable. Players such as Asante Samuel Jr. have been able to come back and play after undergoing the surgery. However, former Steelers sixth-round pick Ryan Watts suffered a "stinger" during the preseason finale in 2024, wound up needing fusion surgery and was forced to retire.
From the Steelers' perspective, they love Jones. Had it not been for this injury, it was fully expected for them to pick up his fifth-year option. However, the surgery and rehab has already been so unpredictable that not only will the team most likely not pick up the option, but might need to once again prioritize offensive tackle in this week's draft. There are some interesting players, including Alabama's Kadyn Proctor, Utah's Spencer Fano and Arizona State's Max Iheanachor. The front office and coaching staff have faith in Dylan Cook, which might give them grace to address offensive tackle on Day 2 or even Day 3, but this development on Jones will force the Steelers' hand to fortify the position.
THE ASYLUM
Report: Jones suffers setback
The Steelers might have to make a difficult decision, one that could not only affect their current draft plans but also mean the end for a former first-round pick's tenure in Pittsburgh.
According to a report by ESPN, Broderick Jones suffered a setback to the neck injury he sustained last season. Now, Jones is set to have an exam this week to determine whether or not he'll be ready for the start of training camp and/or the regular season.
Jones had fusion surgery to repair the injury, which are wildly unpredictable. Players such as Asante Samuel Jr. have been able to come back and play after undergoing the surgery. However, former Steelers sixth-round pick Ryan Watts suffered a "stinger" during the preseason finale in 2024, wound up needing fusion surgery and was forced to retire.
From the Steelers' perspective, they love Jones. Had it not been for this injury, it was fully expected for them to pick up his fifth-year option. However, the surgery and rehab has already been so unpredictable that not only will the team most likely not pick up the option, but might need to once again prioritize offensive tackle in this week's draft. There are some interesting players, including Alabama's Kadyn Proctor, Utah's Spencer Fano and Arizona State's Max Iheanachor. The front office and coaching staff have faith in Dylan Cook, which might give them grace to address offensive tackle on Day 2 or even Day 3, but this development on Jones will force the Steelers' hand to fortify the position.
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