Cowboys-Steelers Blockbuster: Dallas Lands Former 1st-Round OT Broderick Jones in Stunning Trade

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers have declined the fifth-year option on former first-round left tackle Broderick Jones, signaling a make-or-break 2026 season for the 25-year-old blocker. The decision comes as Jones continues to recover from offseason neck surgery that has kept him on a limited snap count throughout training camp. Contract ramifications By passing on the option, the Steelers avoid a guaranteed $15.2 million in 2027 salary, but they also risk losing the former Georgia standout to free agency next spring if he finally delivers on his draft-day promise. It’s the third straight year Pittsburgh has refused a first-round option, extending a frustrating trend for general manager Omar Khan’s front office. Health setback stalls progress Jones’ offseason was derailed in March when doctors discovered lingering spinal compression from the stinger that ended his 2025 campaign. AtoZ Sports reports that a post-surgery flare-up in June forced him into a neck brace for four weeks, delaying his return to full-contact drills. Although he has been cleared for light work, offensive line coach Pat Meyer continues to rotate veteran Dan Moore Jr. and second-year swing tackle Troy Fautanu with the starters while Jones rebuilds strength. On-field struggles continue Even before the injury, Jones’ pass-protection technique drew criticism. During the first padded practices at Saint Vincent College, he surrendered five sacks in two days of one-on-ones, including three to 2026 first-round edge rusher Javontae Samuels. Steelers Nation noted that Jones has spent extra time after practice with assistant Brian Angelichio refining his hand placement and anchoring against the bull rush. What it means for the 2026 Steelers offense Head coach Mike Tomlin has reiterated that the “best five will play,” leaving open the possibility that Jones could be shifted to right tackle or even bumped inside to guard if the line gels without him. Protecting new franchise quarterback Will Howard is priority one, and Pittsburgh will not hesitate to keep the more consistent Moore at left tackle if necessary. Path to redemption For Jones, the blueprint is clear: stay on the field, show weekly improvement, and prove he can anchor the blind side against AFC North pass-rushers Myles Garrett and Aidan Hutchinson. A strong September could still convince the Steelers to negotiate an extension before the trade deadline; a repeat of last year’s inconsistency, however, would likely make 2026 his final season in black and gold. Bottom line Broderick Jones’ Steelers future now hinges on his neck holding up and his play taking a leap. With contract security off the table, every rep — and every snap he protects Howard — will determine whether the former No. 17 pick becomes Pittsburgh’s long-term answer at tackle or the latest first-round miss to walk out of Acrisure Stadium.