As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for one of the league’s most formidable edge-rushing duos, new starting left tackle Dylan Cook faces a defining stretch of his young career.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin recently described Houston Texans pass rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter as “simply the most dynamic edge rush tandem” in the NFL. Cook, who began the season as Pittsburgh’s fourth-string left tackle, is now tasked with protecting the blind side against elite competition — a role few
anticipated for him entering the year.
Cook’s emergence could have significant long-term implications for the Steelers’ offensive line, particularly regarding former first-round pick Broderick Jones.
Jones suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 12 against the Chicago Bears, and his recovery timeline remains uncertain. He is set to enter the final season of his rookie contract in 2026, meaning the Steelers must decide this offseason whether to exercise his fifth-year option.
According to Steelers insider Mark Kaboly, that decision appears increasingly unlikely to be favorable for Jones. Appearing on 93.7 The Fan, Kaboly — who also covers the team for The Pat McAfee Show — stated he believes the Steelers will “absolutely not” pick up Jones’ fifth-year option.
Kaboly’s comments add intrigue to what is shaping up to be a complex offseason for Pittsburgh’s front office. Cook’s continued strong play could solidify him as a long-term option at left tackle, while questions remain about Jones’ health and positional fit moving forward.
One potential scenario involves a position change. Veteran guard Isaac Seumalo is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent and will be 33 years old next season. If Jones is medically cleared, the Steelers could consider transitioning him inside to guard, a move that may offer greater stability after his uneven performance at tackle.
For now, the organization’s priority remains Jones’ health. Medical evaluations and recovery progress will play a central role in determining his future with the team.
Still, Kaboly’s remarks introduce legitimate doubt about the long-term outlook for the Steelers’ 2023 first-round pick, as Pittsburgh balances performance, health, and financial considerations heading into a pivotal offseason.
