There are ongoing rumors about the Steelers trading for another wide receiver. These rumors will likely persist until the Steelers trade for one or the season begins without a trade. However, it's possible that the Steelers already have a top receiver who could excel with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Russell Wilson immediately noticed Calvin Austin's speed as he began his new role as the Steelers quarterback, as reported in an article from Athlon Sports. He remarked that Austin's speed reminded him of Tyler Lockett in some ways. Lockett was one of Wilson's favorite targets before being traded to Denver.
Amidst the speculation about George Pickens' performance and the potential trade for Brandon Aiyuk, it's crucial to recognize Calvin Austin's potential. He could be the game-changing deep-threat weapon that transforms the Steelers' offense into a lethal force in 2024.
We've already witnessed his explosive potential, and with Wilson potentially at the helm, Austin could be on the brink of a breakthrough.
Could Calvin Austin explode in offensive production in 2024?
In 2022, Austin was drafted but missed the entire season due to a foot injury in training camp. As a result, 2023 marked his rookie season. His stats for 2023 may not appear impressive at first glance: 17 receptions for 180 yards. However, it's worth noting that 72 of those receiving yards came from one play, resulting in a touchdown, which was his longest of the 2023 season.
He demonstrated explosive potential on that single play. However, the Steelers underutilized Austin to a great extent. There are two main reasons for this. Firstly, it stems from Matt Canada's poor playcalling. Secondly, the Steelers' passing game with Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett struggled and didn't improve much until Canada was gone and Mason Rudolph took over the offense. It was then that we saw Austin's full potential.
Wilson instantly recognized Austin's upside potential. As a seasoned veteran, Wilson sees that he will want to get the ball into Austin's hands, especially on some deep attempts, where his speed allows Austin to burn many defensive backs. When a wide receiver has 4.4 speed, you use it to your advantage, and Wilson may do just that, you use it to your advantage.
While the media focuses on trade rumors and the Steelers have not made any moves, there may be a specific reason for their inaction. Despite the potential of players like Brandon Aiyuk or CeeDee Lamb, the Steelers may have recognized the offensive capabilities of Pickens and Austin. They believe that with Wilson leading the team, their passing offense could be more formidable than many people realize.
