Steelers Likely To Lose Out On Best Available Free Agent Wide Receiver Now

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made plenty of changes to the roster throughout the 2025 offseason. Most notably, the wide receivers' room was flipped upside down when DK Metcalf was traded for, which was later on followed by dealing George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. Many believe that the offense still needs another weapon at the position, even after acquiring Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins. No such moves have taken place, and with training camp inching closer as each day passes, the organization might legitimately feel comfortable with how the receiving corps looks with the regular season approaching very quickly.

Pittsburgh was in a similar position back in 2024, and after Pickens got injured later in the year, the offense's performance seriously struggled. It was always known that the team would need some help in the area approaching last season's trade deadline, so the decision was made to acquire then-New York Jets wide receiver, Mike Williams. Aside from one big play against the Washington Commanders, the veteran didn't contribute much for the Steel City.

Entering free agency, it was anyone's guess as to where Williams would end up, but he found his way back to the Los Angeles Chargers, the franchise that drafted him back in 2017. While he was expected to play for at least one person season, he unexpectedly retired on Thursday, which was a decision that not many saw coming this late in the offseason.

This could directly affect the Steelers' pursuit of a coveted free agent. Veteran wide receiver, Keenan Allen, has yet to sign with a team as he waits for the right opportunity to pop up. With a roster spot available in Los Angeles, he could also choose to return to the team that drafted him, but with the intent to play, rather than retire as Williams did.

Allen is familiar with the Chargers organization, and could quickly decide to sign a contract with the franchise if his presence is welcomed. In what seems like a fit that makes sense for both sides, teams like the Steelers and General Manager Omar Khan may have been a little discouraged once the Williams retirement was announced. Allen is the perfect individual to fill that roster spot out West.

Pittsburgh may be perfectly content with the pass-catching group, especially due to the acquisition of Smith, but signing one more talented piece such as Allen would solidify fans' excitement. While there are other options to bolster the unit, one of the top individuals to consider remains Allen. Unfortunately, the six-time Pro Bowl wideout could already have his sights set on re-joining his former team.

It's clear that Allen has yet to sign with an organization because he is waiting for the perfect fit as he prepares to enter his 13th professional season. There are certainly teams that are interested in the play-maker, but it could be his decision at the end of the day. An open roster spot with the Chargers could lead to his camp reaching out regarding a deal.

Steelers Will Have A Better Idea Of Wide Receiver Needs As Training Camp Progresses

It's possible that Pittsburgh makes the decision to sign an available wideout after seeing the performances that are put forth on the field during training camp. Amari Cooper is another name to keep an eye on, but overall, it appears as if Khan and co, are content with how the roster looks right now. That complacency may result in a lost opportunity to sign Allen, mainly due to the fact that a perfect landing spot has just emerged for the pass-catcher.

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