Steelers make decision on Broderick Jones’ fifth-year option

Whether it is Aaron Rodgers or a youngster like Will Howard or Drew Allar taking snaps under center, the Pittsburgh Steelers must build a sturdy wall of protection in front of their starting quarterback. Is Broderick Jones part of that plan? The Black and Gold are not ready to make a firm commitment to the No. 14 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh is declining the fifth-year option in Jones’ rookie contract, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The soon-to-be 25-year-old offensive tackle would have collected $19.1 million during the 2027-28 season, but the Steelers want to see him stay healthy and steady for an entire campaign before doling out such a sum of money.

Jones is currently recovering from neck surgery, so the organization will want to exercise a good amount of caution. Even before his injury, the two-time national champion had been inconsistent in the trenches. He allowed six sacks and 23 total pressures in 380 pass-blocking snaps last season, per Pro Football Focus.

Needless to say, Jones has yet to come close to the ceiling that general manager Omar Khan initially envisioned. The 6-foot-5, 311-pounder will now enter the final year of his deal and try to secure a big payday next offseason.

The Steelers selected tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, which could mean one less available spot for Broderick Jones to occupy. A make-or-break season lies ahead, but first, the former Georgia standout needs to get healthy. The neck area must obviously be taken seriously.

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