Sources: Cowboys acquire OT Jones in exchange for two draft picks
The Steelers traded 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones to the Cowboys on Saturday, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. Pittsburgh is sending Jones and a fourth-round pick to Dallas in exchange for a future third-round pick and a future sixth-round pick, sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
Jones, selected with the No. 14 pick after the Steelers traded up for him, was Pittsburgh's starting left tackle in 2025 until he suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 11 against the Bears. He underwent spinal fusion surgery and was cleared to resume football activities at the start of training camp, but he struggled to return to form.
While Jones was sidelined, the Steelers declined his fifth-year option and used their 2026 first-round pick on tackle Max Iheanachor. They also moved 2024 first-round pick Troy Fautanu from right tackle to left tackle. Jones primarily took backup reps at right tackle once he returned and projected to be a backup for the 2026 season, with Fautanu starting at left tackle and Dylan Cook taking most starting right tackle reps in camp.
Jones said in July that he was still regaining his strength and technique after the long layoff, adding, "I wouldn't say I'm where I want to be at. Just trying to get back in shape and putting the weight back on in the right places."
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones said after Friday's preseason finale against the Saints that Dallas would be "very, very aggressive" in filling out its roster. The Cowboys had wanted to upgrade their swing tackle spot after Nate Thomas was unable to get involved in the left tackle competition, and fourth-round pick Drew Shelton is considered more of a project as a rookie.