Andrew Buller-Russ
The 2026 NFL Draft is less than a week away, and there’s been a lot of mystery surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers, who hold the 21st overall pick in the first round. The Steelers still don’t have a starting quarterback, as Aaron Rodgers has yet to sign on for a second season, and they don’t expect an answer from the future Hall of Famer before the draft kicks off on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Steelers’ draft plans may also be impacted by a recent injury setback by one of their young starters. According to ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter, Steelers left tackle “suffered a setback to the neck injury he sustained last season.” He may not be ready for the start of the season, but further tests will determine his status.
“Steelers left tackle Broderick Jones suffered 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.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Broderick Jones
Jones, 24, was the 14th overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He’s started 38 of the 45 appearances he’s made for Pittsburgh. However, Jones hasn’t played since initially suffering the neck injury sustained on November 29, 2025. Now, there’s a fear that he may be forced to miss more time.
The Steelers hold an NFL-high 12 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. Chances are, they’ll use at least one of those picks on an offensive tackle. After 21, the Steelers also hold selections No. 53, 76, 85, and 99 in the first 100 picks.
Related: Pittsburgh Steelers Insider Reveals Which QB Team ‘Likely Favors’ in 2026 NFL Draft
