Questions about quickness and weight have followed Pittsburgh’s offensive line for years, but every preseason brings fresh hope and new resolve. 

This year, a familiar face is generating buzz after a dramatic transformation.All eyes have been on the left tackle position, especially with Aaron Rodgers under center. 

Pass protection was a sore spot last fall, with whispers about foot speed and agility reaching a fever pitch.Broderick Jones has heard it all. After starting every game in 2024, giving up six sacks and earning a middling PFF grade, he knew the offseason demanded more than just routine workouts.

“They said I was too heavy, too slow — not built to protect a legend. So I dropped 25 pounds, rewired my game, and now I’m back to prove every snap that I belong in front of Rodgers. 

This is my comeback season.”Standing 6’5″ and now tipping the scales well below his 311-pound rookie weight, Jones spent OTAs moving lighter and quicker. 

Though the Steelers have kept his exact new weight quiet, insiders believe he’s down to the coveted 300–305 lbs range.League benchmarks suggest the best left tackles blend size with rare speed — and Jones’ 4.78 forty-yard dash always hinted at untapped potential. 

Now, coaches praise his flexibility and improved punch in practice.

The Steelers need their front five at their peak if they want to keep Rodgers upright and open running lanes.

 After slimming down, Jones looks ready to deliver the balance of power and quickness Pittsburgh craves. 

If this new version holds up when the real bullets fly, fans could soon be talking about a redemption arc that began with hard truths and ended with a Pro Bowl leap. For Jones, the doubters only made his resolve stronger — and his comeback that much sweeter.