Steelers Decline Jones' Option, Saving $19M

0:00On May 1st, the Pittsburgh Steelers just declined the 5th year option on offensive tackle Broderick Jones, saving themselves 19.1 million dollars in guaranteed money for 2027. This move was no surprise with his up and down play and that neck injury from last season he's still rehabbing from, possibly with a setback. Jones, their first round pick from 2023 out of Georgia, started his career on the right side before shifting left last year. He show flashes of improvement, cutting penalties to just one, but a free-cate ended his season early after spinal fusion surgery. Now he's in the final year of his rookie deal, hitting free agency next March. Fans and analysts aren't shocked, especially since this marks the 5th straight former first rounder whose option they passed on from Terrell. Edmunds to Kenny Pickett, the last homegrown guy they extended, was TJ Wat back in 2020. It signals Pittsburgh's picky about locking in big contracts without proven elite play.

1:00Looking ahead, Jones has 38 career starts, but faces stiff competition from Troy Fautanu and a Marius Ihanacore for tackle spots under the, new staff. He's battling health issues and deaf guys like Dylan Cook, just to stick on the roster. With Faltenew's option decision coming next May, the Steelers are banking on those younger arms as the future, likely waving goodbye to Jones after. This season, unless he balls out big time.