Steelers Training Camp Battle: Left Tackle
The Pittsburgh Steelers made waves when they traded up to the 14th overall pick to select Georgia tackle Broderick Jones. But just because he's the future of the position, it doesn't mean he just walks in and supplants the starter. And if Dan Moore Jr. has anything to say about it…Jones will be keeping the […]
The Pittsburgh Steelers made waves when they traded up to the 14th overall pick to select Georgia tackle Broderick Jones.
But just because he's the future of the position, it doesn't mean he just walks in and supplants the starter.
And if Dan Moore Jr. has anything to say about it…Jones will be keeping the bench warm this winter
The Incumbent: Dan Moore Jr.
Only approaching his third season with the team, you can't even call Moore the veteran in this battle, but he is the more experienced of the two and won't go down without a fight.
Moore looked much better this offseason, focusing on better body composition and even taking the initiative to practice both tackle spots, showing ultimate buy-in and proving his want to be a team player.
So while Jones may be the shiny new toy, Moore is aiming to prove it's still his turn.
The Rookie: Broderick Jones
Jones is obviously the future of the position, evident not only by his draft status but by his game. A rangy tackle that carries his weight evenly and displays rare athleticism, he is the perfect modern tackle.
But his pass protection lacks nuance and technique, something the Steelers can ill-afford to have when it comes to watching Kenny Pickett's blindside.
Now, that doesn't mean you can count Jones out just yet. He is a plug-and-play starter when it comes to run blocking, meaning the Steelers may lean into his rawness with a heavy rushing attack if he shows improvement as a pass blocker in camp.
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