The NFL Draft represents a monumental moment for so many young prospects. For some NFL veterans, it serves as a performance review.
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor with the 21st pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The young tackle was viewed as one of the most tantalizing prospects in the class.
He's a great addition to the Steelers, but his presence raises concerns about Broderick Jones. This draft selection could indicate that the veteran tackle's time in Pittsburgh is already coming to an end.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' Max Iheanachor pick seals Broderick Jones' fate
Jones has had an up-and-down career with the Steelers. Since being selected 14th overall by Pittsburgh in the 2023 draft, he has struggled to find his footing in the NFL. In three seasons, he's allowed over 100 pressures.
His third season was off to a shaky start when he suffered a neck injury against the Chicago Bears. The tackle would be placed on the injured reserve and would ultimately miss the remainder of the campaign.
Recent reports suggest the injury may be more serious than initially thought. Per insider Nick Farabaugh, Omar Khan is concerned about his veteran's health. After picking Iheanachor, he said Jones' neck injury is a "little bit of a concern."
That's general manager talk for "this is a major problem."
Jones may miss significant time in the 2026 season. This neck injury seems likely to be a long-term issue. He's entering the last year of his rookie contract, so the Steelers have a natural opportunity to part ways with him after this season.
All signs point to Iheanachor forming a tackle duo with Troy Fautanu for the future. The Arizona State prospect is certainly raw, having just picked up football a few years ago, but he has the tools to be elite. He's as athletic as they come and has developed much faster than should be expected.
In the best-case scenario, Jones returns for the start of the season, and Iheanachor acts as quality depth while he adjusts to the NFL. But it looks like this pick was more about the short-term necessity caused by the veteran's injury than about the unit's long-term outlook.
Jones may still have a year left on his contract, but the Steelers could be ready to let him walk after taking Iheanachor in the first round.
Add us as a preferred source on Google