Steelers rookie set to make first start in Week 5

Although the Steelers (2-2) have struggled to start the season, they seem unwilling to make any changes. However, they are being forced to start one of their promising rookies in Week 5.

Head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that left tackle Dan Moore Jr. will be out with a knee sprain against the Ravens (3-1). That means Pittsburgh's first-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, Broderick Jones, will get his first career start on Sunday.

Many were surprised that Jones didn't win the left tackle job after the Steelers traded up to get him in the draft and Moore Jr. allowed seven sacks a season ago. According to the coaching staff, Moore Jr. had a stronger training camp and preseason.

It doesn't matter anymore as the rookie is the next man up and Tomlin is confident playing him a month into the season.

"I thought he got better throughout and I think it's reasonable to expect him to be solid with a whole week of prep," Tomlin said.

If Jones plays well in Moore Jr.'s absence, Pittsburgh may just decide to stick with him the rest of the way. But first, the Georgia product must prove the Steelers right for drafting him.

Jones may not be the only rookie getting his first start either. Tomlin added that CB Joey Porter Jr., the No. 32 overall pick and son of former LB Joey Porter, has "positioned himself to be a bigger factor in the defense moving forward."

Pittsburgh's secondary has been getting roasted, allowing the seventh-most passing yards per game (254.5) in the league. A change seems necessary, and the Steelers second-round pick could be the answer.

If both do make their first starts in Week 5, they will play large roles in an important AFC North matchup where the winner will take the lead in the division.