The Pittsburgh Steelers encountered significant challenges at the left tackle position this past NFL season. Broderick Jones began as the starter but faced a setback when he sustained a neck injury that required surgery, prematurely ending his season. Following this, his backup also suffered an injury, which led to Dylan Cook stepping in and maintaining the starting role for the remainder of the year.
Cook’s performance impressed everyone around the team, from coaches to fans, creating a compelling scenario as the offseason approaches.
Offseason Competition Set to Determine Future Starter
The upcoming offseason will be critical for Broderick Jones as he works to regain his starting spot. Former Steelers offensive lineman Trai Essex emphasized the importance of this period, saying,
“Dylan Cook is the starter going into camp, and it is incumbent upon Broderick to show the coaches that he has worked in the offseason, that he’s fully recovered from this injury, and that this is a contract year,”
Essex explained on the Fan Morning Show.
Essex further stressed the stakes involved, stating,
“It’s a make-or-break year for Broderick, not only for his career in Pittsburgh, but his career as a starter in general, because if he doesn’t win this job here, I think he has a career as a swing tackle. But him being a starter might not happen if he doesn’t win this year. So, this is a super important year for him. But I think you definitely go with Dylan Cook as a starter with the way that he ended the year, and see if Broderick can supplant him.”
Jones’ Career Challenges and Team Expectations
Broderick Jones’ journey in the NFL has been more difficult than anticipated. The Steelers had high hopes when they traded up in the 2023 NFL Draft to select him, expecting him to solidify their offensive line. Despite that, Jones has yet to fully meet those expectations due to a mix of team usage and his own challenges.
Unlike his natural position at left tackle, Jones spent much of his rookie and sophomore seasons playing right tackle. In 2025, he finally earned the opportunity to start at left tackle and showed progress before his injury halted that momentum.
Dylan Cook’s Impact and the Ongoing Contest for Left Tackle
In Jones’ absence, Dylan Cook’s emergence brought stability and enhancement to the Steelers’ offensive line, contributing to their AFC North title. Cook acknowledged Jones’ role in preparing him for success, highlighting their shared commitment to the team’s goals.
Looking ahead to the spring and summer, both players are expected to compete fiercely for the starting left tackle position.
Career Implications and Contract Stakes for Both Players
The outcome of this offseason battle carries significant career consequences for both Jones and Cook. As Essex noted, failure to reclaim the starting role could mean Jones settles into a backup or swing tackle role rather than being a full-time starter. Since both are entering contract years, earning and performing well at the starting spot will be essential for securing lucrative contracts and shaping their NFL futures.
The Steelers, meanwhile, can hope that the competition pushes both offensive tackles to elevate their game, ultimately benefiting the team’s offensive line going forward.
