Broderick Jones is hitting back at fans who criticize him on Twitter

No doubt frustrated by the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first loss of the season and the criticism he faced all summer, OT Broderick Jones is sounding off to those admonishing his play against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. In response to more than half a dozen fans, Jones clapped back at those who called him out for what they perceived as poor play.

Here are just some of the comments he’s made since the game ended.

And those are just some of the reactions he has received since coming off the field. We double checked and verified that this is Jones’ official account, followed by the Steelers’ official account.

Pittsburgh’s offensive line struggled as the entire offense played sloppy football for much of the game. The running game continued to sputter as RB Najee Harris finished with just 19 yards on 13 carries and RB Cordarrelle Patterson, who provided the spark, left in the first half due to an ankle injury. The Steelers finished the day with 122 rushing yards, but 55 of those and the team’s two rushing scores came from QB Justin Fields.

In the passing game, Fields was sacked a season-high four times. Those came for a variety of reasons, but the ugliest play was when Fields was dropped for a loss of 20 yards and lost a fumble, turning a drive that started in Colts territory into a turnover that put Indianapolis on the brink of a field goal . range.

While Broderick Jones may appear to be wrong here, a free rusher coming from his side, the Steelers are shifting protection away from the blitz. Jones takes the threat from the inside, a golden rule in pass protection, and is not responsible for the nickel pressure. It’s fair to wonder why RB Najee Harris didn’t stay in to protect this play, something that’s likely Fields’ fault for not making the adjustment. And the ball never came out hot despite the two unblocked players, with Fields running back to try to avoid the rush before fumbling the ball.

It’s not easy for players to feel the wave of criticism that comes after a defeat. The Internet is an unforgiving place for those who play the game and for those who analyze it. Jones’ frustration is understandable given the disparaging comments he’s heard since his summer woes, starting with the preseason disaster with the Buffalo Bills and followed by his terrible performance against the Denver Broncos in Week 2. For the most part, he’s professional and mature been because he was 23 years old and has returned since the Broncos show.

But going to Twitter to respond, no matter how good it feels at the time, never makes sense. The best thing you can do after a tough loss like this is turn off your phone and get ready for Monday.