Tell me if you have heard this before: Broderick Jones giving up quick pressure. That was a consistent theme throughout the Pittsburgh Steelers' narrow 34-32 victory against the New York Jets, and it nearly spoiled a vintage performance by Aaron Rodgers in his Steelers debut.
The Steelers were hoping that the 2023 first-round pick would improve his level of play now that he is back at his natural position at left tackle, but the first impression was an absolute disaster. He gave up multiple sacks, didn't help much in the run game, and was an all-around mess for Pittsburgh.
If things don't improve quickly for Jones, a benching could be coming his way. There aren't any particularly good options on the depth chart to replace him, but Mike Tomlin needs to send a message before things get any worse.
Broderick Jones' disastrous debut against Jets has Pittsburgh Steelers fans concerned
While it's not a surprise to see Jones play poorly in his first start at left tackle in years, there is no way that Pittsburgh can feel confident dropping back to pass with him out there if that is how he is going to look. Will McDonald beat him like a drum all day long, and he also got planted by Quinnen Williams early for a sack.
The Jets' pass rush is certainly a good one, with McDonald coming off a 10.5 sack season and Jermaine Johnson returning from injury to pair with him. But there is no excuse for playing this poorly when you are trying to protect a 41-year-old QB like Aaron Rodgers.
If the Steelers are going to accomplish what they set out to do by acquiring Rodgers and all of the other key additions this offseason, the offensive line must be better than it was today. That starts with either getting better play from Jones or benching him if it's the only other option.
I could even see a trade potentially happening to add another option at tackle if it means giving the passing game a higher floor. Jones was lucky that Rodgers is still standing after the beating he took, and he'd better hope he can play much better next week against Seattle next week. Otherwise, his time as a starter may be over quickly.