It's been over two grueling months since the NFL season officially ended. The 2023 NFL draft is finally here and has the potential to be the most pivotal and exciting draft class for the Steelers of the last 20 years. With an uncharacteristically active free agency period, the Steelers entered Thursday night with few glaring holes and plenty of draft capital in the first three rounds to shake things up.
Omar Khan and company knew just how important hitting a homerun would be with their first pick since taking over for Kevin Colbert this past year. That's why they moved up to the 14th overall pick in a trade that sent the 17th and 120th picks to the New England Patriots for a chance to select their potential franchise Left Tackle. Here are four takeaways from the Steelers' first-round selection:
4. Steelers finish offensive line makeover with first-round pick
The Steelers had a clear priority this offseason in revamping an offensive line group that has had its ups and downs over the last several years, despite finishing off the 2022 season on a high note. Moving forward with a young quarterback made this move that much more important. With the signings of OG Nate Herbig, OG Isaac Seumalo, and OT Le'Raven Clark, selecting Broderick Jones was just the icing on the cake.
Broderick Jones is not a lock to be the day-one starter over Dan Moore Jr., but it should certainly be the expectation. The former Georgia Bulldog is as athletic as they come at Left Tackle and provides the Steelers' offensive line with a whole new skill set that they have been longing for. Omar Khan and Andy Weidl have shown plenty of confidence that Jones can be the cornerstone of the Steelers' offensive line for years to come, and that's why they moved up to pick 14 to snag him.
With the possibility of the two-time national champion stepping into the starting lineup, the Pittsburgh Steelers offense would potentially be looking at two brand-new starters and a solid second group ready to fill in when needed.