Pittsburgh Steelers long snapper Christian Kuntz dismissed rumors of a setback for offensive tackle Broderick Jones. Kuntz expressed confidence in Jones' full recovery from a neck injury. The comments come amid questions following the team's recent draft pick.
Christian Kuntz, speaking on The Christian Kuntz Podcast, questioned the validity of reports suggesting Broderick Jones suffered a setback after offseason workouts. “I don’t know how true those rumors are that he is unhealthy,” Kuntz said. “I know obviously he has his neck injury, but I don’t how true any of it [is], I’m pretty sure that he’s gonna make a full recovery.” Kuntz and Jones both participated in Phase 1 workouts one week before Adam Schefter's report of a setback, as published on April 30, 2026, via Steelers Depot reporting on the podcast remarks. Steelers GM Omar Khan had downplayed the concerns, but Pittsburgh drafted offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the first round, fueling speculation about Jones' status. Jones sustained his neck injury on November 23, 2025, in Week 12 against the Bears and underwent surgery in December. Prior to setback rumors, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Gerry Dulac reported Jones was ahead of schedule and potentially ready by training camp. Dr. David Okonkwo, a Steelers staff expert in spinal-fusion surgeries, handled a similar procedure for Asante Samuel Jr. last April, with clearance by November. Kuntz noted uncertainty on the exact timeline: “You never know.” The team holds three first-round-caliber tackles, including Dylan Cook, providing depth without rushing Jones back. Officials anticipate Jones could compete for the starting left tackle role in 2026 if he regains health.
