Broderick Jones: Grading the Steelers’ No. 14 overall NFL Draft pick

Set to pick at No. 17 overall, the Pittsburgh Steelers opted to trade up to the Patriots’ No. 14 overall spot to take the guy they really wanted. The Steelers were able to land Broderick Jones from Georgia

All Pittsburgh had to do was give up a fourth-rounder along with their No. 17 overall pick to land their guy at No. 14.

The telecast talked about his athleticism at the offensive tackle position and he’s one of the best pure athletes of any offensive linemen in recent memory. He can get out in space and block in front of a running back and he moves really well laterally. And he’s quick when going two the second level and he’s just really solid all around.

Pittsburgh obviously really wanted this national champion offensive tackle and they wanted to make sure to protect their potential future quarterback and first-rounder from a year ago in Kenny Pickett.

Many thought Jones would go to the Jets to protect Aaron Rodgers, but the Steelers were able to steal him at No. 14 after the trade.

Grading the Steelers’ selection of Broderick Jones

I like this pick a lot. He runs a sub-5.0 40-yard dash at 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds which is just unheard of and it gives the Steelers’ offense a lot of options.

Adding an offensive tackle that can come in and start right away and protect the franchise quarterback is a big win for Pittsburgh. And moving ahead of the Jets to snag him when they were likely to go with Jones is massive.

The Steelers get a nice grade here.

Grade: A