Overview
- ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported a rehab setback for Jones before the draft that cast doubt on his readiness for training camp and Week 1.
- Pittsburgh drafted Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor at No. 21 in 2026, and analysts expect he will take first-team snaps if Jones remains limited.
- One week after the draft, the Steelers declined Jones’ fifth-year option, which would have guaranteed about $19 million in 2027, leaving him on a $1.5 million base for 2026.
- Jones’ play had already slipped, with an 85.0% pass block win rate that ranked 65th of 68 qualified tackles last season.
- Former Steelers lineman Trai Essex urged Jones to consider requesting a trade for a fresh start, noting he could fall behind recent first-round tackles Troy Fautanu and Iheanachor.