Broderick Jones Embraces Fresh Start, Opportunity With Cowboys

Pittsburgh selected Jones with the 14th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft after he helped Georgia win consecutive national championships. However, his first three NFL seasons did not go according to plan.

Jones appeared in 45 games and made 38 starts for the Steelers, spending time at both tackle positions. A neck injury ended his 2025 campaign in November, further interrupting his development.

After returning for Pittsburgh’s preseason, Jones learned that he had been traded to Dallas. The Cowboys sent 2027 third- and sixth-round selections to the Steelers in exchange for Jones and a 2027 fourth-round pick.

“It was a surprise, but I was excited for the change,” Jones said in his first interview following the trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers. “You know, just going into the year after last year, me getting injured and just trying to get my feet back up under me — I feel like a new start was needed for me. I’m just ready to get here and get started.”

Jones will challenge Steele at right tackle

Jones will not be asked to move between the left and ride sides in Dallas. Schottenheimer said the 25-year old will work exclusively at right tackle, giving him an opportunity to get comfortable at one position.

Steele remains the favorite after 91 of his 96 career games, but his place in the lineup is no longer guaranteed. Schottenheimer personally called Steele after the trade to explain that Jones would compete with him.

The competition could benefit the entire offensive line. It provides Dallas with another option if Steele struggles while also pushing the veteran to elevate his performance.

Jones’ immediate priority will be returning to full strength after last season’s injury.

“I feel like I’m doing great so far after the injury,” Jones said. “Everything’s looking how it’s supposed to. I’ve been out there, I’ve been playing. I’ve got back into the game. I’m getting [back to full health]. I’m not fully where I want to be, though.
I would say probably like 85, 90 percent.”

Jones has yet to fulfill the expectations that accompanied his draft status, but his athleticism, experience and potential make him more than a traditional backup.

Pickens reunion could ease transition

Jones will have familiar face waiting for him in Dallas.

He and Pickens were teammates at Georgia before beginning their NFL careers together in Pittsburgh. Pickens was the first person Jones contacted after learning about the trade, while the Cowboys receiver also expressed excitement about reuniting with his former teammate.

That relationship should help Jones adjust to new organization and offensive system. He will also work with offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and offensive line coach Conor Riley as he attempts to rebuild his career.

“I’m pumped up, man. I’m just pumped up, you know?” Jones said. “They made it clear where they want me. I just gotta do my part and show up.”

The Cowboys have given Jones the fresh start and stability he wanted. If he takes advantage of them, Dallas may have found both an immediate challenger for Steele’s and its next starting right tackle.