Broderick Jones seems completely different this season. Not simply due to his place swap, flipping again to left deal with after spending most of his NFL profession on the proper facet. Not only for his physique, losing a few pounds this offseason to construct himself again up through the yr. Not only for his stage of play, which has improved. However his confidence and physique language are scores higher than a yr in the past.
In fact, these above elements could possibly be the explanation why. Again at left deal with, in higher form, and higher outcomes are all good causes to be assured. It’s mirrored in Jones’ physique language and feelings. A yr in the past, it was damaging. Annoyed, offended, taking to Twitter post-game to lash out at followers.
This yr? Jones can nonetheless be animated. Nevertheless it’s constructive power. Final Thursday’s sport towards the Cincinnati Bengals reveals it. As our Ross McCorkle identified, Jones was skipping alongside after this stick by S Chuck Clark.
Or see right here after RB Kenneth Gainwell’s landing towards the Minnesota Vikings. Look how fired up, presumably in a great way, Jones is as he walks off the sector.
Or celebrating with Aaron Rodgers after Pat Freiermuth’s go-ahead rating. Shaking Rodgers on the sideline and even the weird second of Jones tackling Rodgers after the play. Unwise because it was to throw your unsuspecting 41-year-old quarterback into the bottom, it was heartening to see Jones genuinely overjoyed by it.
It doesn’t imply Jones’ issues are solved. Technically, he’s nonetheless a bumpy trip with a lot of progress wanted. I’m removed from prepared to think about a long-term cope with him and even the fifth-year possibility due in Might stays a debate, although it’s trending in the direction of it being exercised. In that case, he’d be the primary Steelers’ draft choose since T.J. Watt to have his possibility accepted. Pittsburgh wouldn’t have to search around for a left deal with this offseason. That’s particularly necessary with so many different doubtless wants in 2026, beginning with a quarterback.
Confidence is essential. Particularly for a younger NFL participant like Jones. He’s nonetheless solely 24 years outdated. He’s taken his lumps, heard the criticism that may rattle anybody, and he’s bouncing again. That’s not simply seen in his improved play however in his angle and demeanor as nicely. If he continues alongside this monitor, his pockets might be so much happier in a pair years, too.
