PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – He played the most snaps since last November, what Steelers tackle Broderick Jones is saying about his game before the final preseason game.
Jones played most of the Jets game last Friday, at right and left tackle, which he said is doable as an NFL player, but difficult. He said you have to flip the plays and your technique moving from one side to the other.
Still not fully back from a major neck injury suffered against the Bears last year, Jones said ‘for the most part’ the neck is holding up fine. He said the legs feel great and he can get by with that. However, he still could put on a few more pounds after losing tens of pounds in the offseason not being medically cleared to do anything for a few months. Jones said with more weight comes more strength and the ability to play better.
He also admits to some technique and fundamental issues he could tighten up, but Jones said it was nothing too crazy.
The self-evaluation of the first game was solid, but the second game needs a lot of improvement.
“He's getting better,” said Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. “His position flex is important to my evaluation of him. He'll play both right tackle and some left tackle come Thursday tonight. So, he’s just got to clean up some things.”
That starts in practice where this week he was routinely switching sides, which creates the previously addressed issues, plus he’s going against three high-level outside linebackers.
“Coming out here and being able to go against these guys every day, it’s a big step,” Jones said. “I’m not where I want to be at yet, but I’m for sure taking the right steps. I can feel it. I just got to continue to show up each and every day and put my best foot forward.”
Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio said he’s still working to find his groove.
“We're going to continue to push him and give him some reps and see if we can get him to settle in,” Angelichio said. “But I think a lot of that is just getting back and getting out there playing, which is good. It's been good to see him out there, and you can see he's getting more and more comfortable.”
“Got to do what I can for my team,” Jones said. “I’ve come off the bench before, it’s not a problem. I’m not saying that’s where I want to be, but like I said, whatever I got to do to help my team.”
Steelers tackle on his play and reaction from the head coach and OC
Steelers tackle on his play and reaction from the head coach and OC
