After Surprising OT Development, Could Steelers Trade Broderick Jones?

Aug 03, 2026; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Max Iheanachor (71) blocks linebacker T.J. Watt (90.)during a practice session at Training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

After Surprising OT Development, Could Steelers Trade Broderick Jones?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jobe Morrison | Last updated Aug 12, 2026 10:00 AM ET

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As the Pittsburgh Steelers begin their first week of game preparation under new head coach Mike McCarthy, one name remains a bit of a mystery heading into the 2026 season. Offensive tackle Broderick Jones is fully cleared for football activities after dealing with a neck injury last season. He has continued to work his way back and has a chance to regain ground on the depth chart. However, the emergence of first-round pick Max Iheanachor could create more uncertainty for Jones. Iheanachor entered the NFL as a player expected to need some development during his rookie season. That may still be the case, but the upside that convinced the Steelers to select him in the first round has already started to show during training camp.

That development could put Jones in an interesting position.

The Steelers now potentially have a few tackles with starting-caliber potential, creating a decision they did not necessarily expect to face when the offseason began. At one point, Pittsburgh appeared to have a legitimate need to add another offensive tackle. The developments at training camp have changed that equation dramatically. Could Jones be preparing to be traded?

Steelers may want to accelerate Max Iheanachor's development

The Steelers have plenty of incentive to find a meaningful role for Iheanachor as quickly as possible. The ideal path could involve making him the primary backup to Dylan Cook. That would give Iheanachor valuable opportunities to learn while also allowing the coaching staff to ease him into an expanded role. However, if Iheanachor continues to perform at his current level, the Steelers could eventually consider giving him a real chance to work for the starting job.

That would make the tackle situation even more crowded. Pittsburgh does not have to rush a decision on Jones, particularly because he is still kind of working his way back from a delayed start to 2026 football activities. However, the better Iheanachor looks, the more difficult it becomes to guarantee Jones a prominent role simply because of where the Steelers drafted him.

Jones could benefit from a fresh start sooner rather than later

Jul 25, 2025; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Troy Fautanu (76) and offensive tackle Broderick Jones (77) participate in drills during training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Jones has every reason to continue competing and make the most of his opportunity in Pittsburgh. He can control how he performs, regardless of what the Steelers ultimately decide to do with their offensive line. Still, a fresh start could eventually make sense for both sides. If the Steelers determine that Iheanachor and Cook give the team enough depth at tackle, the Steelers could explore whether Jones has value on the trade market. Jones could also benefit from joining a team that can offer him a clearer path to significant playing time.

The Washington Commanders are one team worth monitoring if they need help at tackle following Laremy Tunsil's triceps injury. Nothing suggests the Steelers are preparing to move Jones right now. However, Iheanachor's rapid development has, frankly, changed the conversation around Pittsburgh's offensive tackle room.

For Jones, the preseason could provide an important opportunity to prove he still belongs in the Steelers' plans. It could also give the Steelers a clearer idea of whether his best opportunity comes in Pittsburgh or somewhere else.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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