Steelers offensive tackle Broderick Jones spoke to reporters on Wednesday about his return to left tackle and new offseason approach.
PITTSBURGH–When the Pittsburgh Steelers traded up and drafted Broderick Jones 14h overall in 2023, the idea was he would be the cornerstone left tackle. In his first two seasons, he got more work at right tackle instead. On Wednesday, Jones was excited to be back on the blind side.
Though he was considered a raw talent coming out of Georgia, Jones showed flashes of his potential in the first two years. However, he has felt better at left tackle than at right tackle.
Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Broderick Jones runs out of the tunnel for a game against the Cleveland Browns on Dec. 8, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
"I'm just glad to be back out here with the guys … being back on the left side," Jones said when asked about the first days back on the field. "Just getting second-hand nature back with everything … just keep building on what I've been doing all off-season."
When asked about his previous role with the team, Jones understood the assignment he was given. "When they initially moved me to right tackle and I played it for so long … they tried to make me, like, the swing tackle." The former Bulldog said.
In 2023, Jones filled in admirably for recently benched Chukwuma Okorafor . After that, it was long expected he would return to his natural position. He knew it as well.
"I knew [I would] be going back to left [tackle.]" Jones told reporters.
Pittsburgh Steelers OT Broderick Jones at practice on Wednesday, Sept 19, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Not only has Jones gotten back into the swing of things at left tackle, but he took a different conditioning approach this offseason.
"I wanted to come back a little leaner just because it gives me a chance to gain weight like going into the training camp," Jones said of his slimmer build. "I think I'm at 305 to 310ish."
He also told reporters last season he played between 325 and 330 pounds. Jones appeared like a man ready to seize control of his opportunity.
Though Moore Jr. did enough to keep his job from 2021-2024, the hope is Jones will elevate the position. His athleticism and strong run-blocking ability make him a valuable asset in Arthur Smith's offense.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe provided reporting from Pittsburgh.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Broderick Jones Excited to Be Back at Left Tackle
