Few expected Broderick Jones to be ready by the regular season, let alone training camp. That is the reality after the Pittsburgh Steelers' top decision-makers made it known just before the start of training camp that the former starting tackle will be ready to compete for a spot along the offensive line.
He has an uphill battle to overcome, but he has a shot to win a job.
One of the strongest abilities a player can have is his availability. With Jones getting cleared to participate in training camp, expect him to have a growing curve in front of him once more. After recovering from his neck injury, he had little time to get into football shape. Having a timeframe of struggles, especially during the early portion of training camp, should be expected.
Another factor where Jones can shake up the newly situated offensive line is at right tackle. He has started there during the early part of his career, but he also has a shot at the left side if all else fails. His ability to switch sides, his prior starting experience, and being a former first-round pick elevate his shot at winning a roster spot. He has gone from an unknown to a potential wildcard.
Pittsburgh Steelers training camp got a lot more interesting with the Broderick Jones news
It will be interesting to see how the Steelers work Jones into football activities at training camp. He hasn't had any time to prepare for practices this offseason, and it could take weeks for him to catch up. He shouldn't be worried about being on the bubble right now, but if someone behind him on the depth chart emerges, it could cost him his job.
His best shot at making some noise this preseason would be at right tackle. With Troy Fautanu sliding over to left tackle, it only makes sense for Jones to push for the competition on the opposite side. He would battle Dylan Cook and Max Iheanachor for the starting job. If he fails to land that role, there seems to be little chance for him to get a meaningful job barring injury.
Again, how much will his football shape factor into his start at training camp? Any possible way to catch up in a hurry could give him a fighting chance to win the job over Cook and Iheanachor. Jones has more starting experience than both of his competitors, and his position flexibility is well known. It will be a grueling Summer for the former top pick, but he has a path to start.
The offensive line was already intriguing going into this training camp, especially with a starting spot still up for grabs at two positions. Solving the rest of the depth chart in the trenches will be the focus of the summer, and Jones will clearly factor into that process much more than anyone expected.
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