Steel City Blitz
One of the major reasons the Pittsburgh Steelers brought in Andy Weidl was because of his experience building the trenches of the Philadelphia Eagles. When he arrived here, the thought was that he could do the same thing with the Steelers. So far, the results are incomplete simply because this is the third year “the plan.”
On the offensive side, there have been some positives and some negatives. Zach Frazier appears to be settling into a long career at center which was a huge need after Maurkice Pouncey retired several years back. On the flip-side we have Broderick Jones who faces the most crucial season in his young football career. After two seasons of up and down play at right tackle he finally is getting his chance at his more preferred left tackle spot.
While the Steelers have yet to actually put the pads on, the early returns on Jones have been worrisome. He constantly seems a step behind the pass rushers he’s facing and then Sunday he left with a soft tissue injury to his hip area. This gave both Calvin Anderson and Dylan Cook opportunities with the first team. I’m putting the cart way before the horse but I’m seriously concerned about Jones’ long-term future.
One could suggest that if Jones has to miss a little bit of time then now is better than once we get into the preseason games. I can understand that argument especially if it means getting Anderson the very raw Cook some reps. The problem as I see it is that Jones literally needs every rep he can get. What also worries me is that injury could be the type that lingers. Jones dealt with the exact same type of thing in 2024 too with his arm and it significantly impacted his play.
As for the rest of the offensive line, Troy Fautanu is essentially in his rookie year while Mason McCormick begins his second season at guard. “Old Reliable” was supposed to be Isaac Seumalo but he still hasn’t practiced yet. To suggest that I’m concerned about this unit is a massive understatement.
The post The Steelers Can’t Afford to See Jones Out for Even a Short Time appeared first on Steel City Blitz.
