Steelers horrific streak extends with Broderick Jones news

May 2, 2026 - 00:54

The Pittsburgh Steelers have once again failed to break a frustrating pattern, as the team has not signed first-round pick Broderick Jones to a contract extension. This marks another year in a growing streak of the organization failing to lock up its top draft selections before their rookie deals expire.

Jones, an offensive tackle taken in the first round of the 2023 draft, was expected to be a cornerstone for the offensive line. However, the Steelers have now let the deadline pass without an extension, continuing a trend that has frustrated fans and analysts alike. The last time Pittsburgh extended a first-round pick before the end of their rookie contract was back in 2016 with cornerback Artie Burns, a deal that did not pan out well. Since then, players like T.J. Watt, Najee Harris, and Kenny Pickett have all played out their initial contracts without early extensions, though Watt eventually got a massive deal after his fifth-year option.

The news on Jones is particularly concerning given the team's struggles to protect the quarterback. Jones has shown flashes of talent but has also dealt with inconsistency and penalties. Without a long-term commitment, the Steelers risk losing a young lineman just as he starts to develop. For a franchise that prides itself on stability, this streak is becoming an ugly blemish on their front office record.