How Broderick Jones injury setback changes Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 NFL Draft plans

"For starters, left tackle Broderick Jones had a setback to the neck injury he sustained last season, and is scheduled to be examined this week to determine whether he will be ready for training camp and/or the start of the season, per league sources," he said. "That could influence whether Pittsburgh needs to find a new left tackle during the first two days of the draft."

How Jones' setback impacts Steelers' draft plans

As Schefter notes, the Steelers might have an added emphasis on drafting a left tackle over the first two days of the draft.

Jones was already on shaky ground because of his struggles over three seasons, but he figured to get another opportunity in 2026 and the Steelers wouldn't be rushed to draft a potential replacement this year.

The expectation is there is going to be a run on offensive tackles start may start as early as late in the top 10, which could force the Steelers to trade up if they don't want to miss out on some of the best players at the position in this year's class.

Luckily, Pittsburgh is well-equipped to move up, with the team having a whopping 12 picks in this year's draft, including five over the first three rounds.