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5 nightmare scenarios for Steelers 2023 season and how to avoid them

By Rucker Haringey

Jan 1, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) warmup before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) warmup before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Broderick Jones should start right away at left tackle for the Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Broderick Jones should start right away at left tackle for the Steelers. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Broderick Jones could play like a rookie

The Steelers selected Jones with the No. 14 overall pick because they believe he can grow into a top-tier starting left tackle. The franchise also needs the former Georgia star to help keep quarterback Kenny Pickett clean this season.

No one should expect Jones to play like an All-Pro right away, but they can’t afford for him to be anything less than a decent starter. If he looks over his head early in the season it’s going to really put Pickett and his offense in a tough spot.

The good news for Steelers fans is that Jones does have the elite athletic traits required to be a star tackle. The challenge for the coaching staff will be getting him up to speed quickly enough to be a decent starter when Week 1 rolls around.

The Steelers need to make sure Jones gets off to a good start. Building his confidence by supporting him with tight end and running backs in obvious passing downs should help. In a perfect world, Pittsburgh could also play ahead early in the season which would allow Jones to do more run blocking than pass protection.

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