The Pittsburgh Steelers must decide by May 1 whether to exercise the fifth-year option for Broderick Jones, their left tackle who remains in recovery from a severe neck injury sustained in November 2025. This decision involves a significant financial commitment, as the option would be fully guaranteed if picked up.
Recently disclosed figures reveal that Jones’ fifth-year option will cost the Steelers $19,072,000, a sum slightly below earlier projections. The team and fans await clarity on Jones’ health before this deadline, which will shape the Steelers’ offensive line strategy for the 2027 NFL season.
Financial Details and NFL Guidelines for Fifth-Year Options
According to an NFL memo shared by insider Tom Pelissero, first-round picks who have fulfilled their required playing time but have not earned Pro Bowl honors face a fifth-year option valued in the $19 million range. For Broderick Jones, the finalized option comes in at just over $19 million, which represents a $750,000 decrease from his initially expected tag of $19.949 million.
“And here are the fifth-year option numbers for 2023 first-round picks. Any team exercising the option must notify the player in writing no later than May 1. https://t.co/snE6GhegjJ pic.twitter.com/iGcYDBbnbT”
— Tom Pelissero, NFL Insider
The Steelers must communicate their decision to Jones formally before the May 1 deadline. If picked, the fifth-year option guarantees the player’s salary fully for the 2027 season, along with any base salary from his fourth year that lacked full guarantees.
“Fifth-year option amount for 2027 would be $19.072 million if the Steelers pick it up in early May. If exercised, the fifth year option is fully guaranteed, and any base salary in the player’s fourth year that was not fully guaranteed will become so as well. #Steelers #NFL https://t.co/k8YlFVlGHj”
— Steelers Depot 7⃣
Broderick Jones’ Injury and Performance Up to the Setback
Before his injury in Week 12 against the Chicago Bears, Jones showed marked progress at left tackle after shifting from right tackle, where he spent his first two NFL seasons. Despite a slow start during training camp and the early games of the 2025 season, he “turned things around” by minimizing penalties and strengthening his pass protection skills.
Jones played in 11 games last season, during which he allowed only one penalty and significantly cut down pressures and sacks allowed. His sacks allowed were reduced by half, evidencing his improvement on the field before the neck injury abruptly ended his season. Reports indicate he underwent surgery following the injury.
Uncertainty Surrounding Jones’ Future Amid Emerging Competition
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan acknowledged the ongoing evaluation of Jones’ health during the 2026 Scouting Combine. When asked about Jones’ availability and the prospect of a contract extension, Khan emphasized that the medical outlook heavily influences the team’s decisions.
“Fifth-year option amount for 2027 would be $19.072 million if the Steelers pick it up in early May. If exercised, the fifth year option is fully guaranteed, and any base salary in the player’s fourth year that was not fully guaranteed will become so as well.”
— Steelers Depot 7⃣
Meanwhile, Dylan Cook’s late-season emergence at left tackle has intensified discussions over Jones’ role. Cook’s solid performances sparked some opinions favoring him as the starter heading into training camp, a view shared by former Steelers offensive lineman Trai Essex.
Despite the competition, Jones’ status as Khan’s first draft pick in 2023, made by moving up to No. 14 overall from Georgia, remains a factor. Jones has shown promising development and will now work under new offensive line coaches James Campen and Jahri Evans, which could aid his return to form.
Awaiting Final Decisions on Broderick Jones and Team’s Offensive Line Direction
The Steelers face a tough choice underpinned by Jones’ injury recovery and Cook’s rise. The decision to activate Broderick Jones’ fifth-year option at $19 million is critical not only financially but for the team’s offensive strategy moving forward. The medical staff’s assessments will likely sway the final call, which must be made before the upcoming May 1 deadline.
Should the Steelers pick up the option, Jones will have a guaranteed salary for the 2027 season, affirming confidence in his potential long-term contribution. If not, his future with the franchise will remain uncertain, opening the door wider for alternatives such as Dylan Cook.
And here are the fifth-year option numbers for 2023 first-round picks. Any team exercising the option must notify the player in writing no later than May 1. https://t.co/snE6GhegjJ pic.twitter.com/iGcYDBbnbT
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 27, 2026
Fifth-year option amount for 2027 would be $19.072 million if the steelers pick it up in early May. If exercised, the fifth year option is fully guaranteed, and any base salary in the player's fourth year that was not fully guaranteed will become so as well. #Steelers #NFL https://t.co/k8YlFVlGHj
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) February 27, 2026
