There have been a variety of storylines surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. In an effort to stay competitive in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions (the AFC North), the team has made significant changes to their roster on both offense and defense. It doesn’t look like they’re finished just yet either. Rumors continue to grow as the Steelers remain in the conversation to potentially land either of two talented wide receivers, a position that Pittsburgh has been looking to add to for a little while now.
The question of whether or not the Steelers will add another wide receiver has been ongoing. While early talks focused on available free agents, the spotlight has recently shifted to players still under contract. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo recently joined 93.7 The Fan to discuss the potential of bringing in either Terry McLaurin or Jauan Jennings, and which of the two might be a more realistic option for Pittsburgh.
"The one thing about Jennings, it took us a second to get DK Metcalf. What are we talking to get a Jennings, a third or a fourth maybe? In that scenario, you are probably talking the more realistic one as supposed to Terry McLaurin," Fittipaldo said.
As Fittipaldo pointed out, the Steelers pulled off a major move earlier this offseason by trading for DK Metcalf, giving up their 2025 second-round draft pick in the deal. This was one of the first big decisions of the offseason and sparked a lot of excitement among fans. Initially, many were eager to see Metcalf team up with George Pickens to form a dynamic receiving duo. However, following Pickens’ departure to Dallas, the Steelers once again find themselves searching for a reliable wide receiver two (WR2).
Although the Steelers have been connected to several wide receivers during the offseason, recent rumors have mainly focused on Jennings and McLaurin. Interestingly, neither player is currently a free agent, as they are both under contract with their teams. However, Jennings has asked for either a new contract or a trade, while McLaurin has voiced his frustration with the Washington Commanders while going through ongoing contract negotiations.
During an earlier offseason workout media session, Steelers Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni named Calvin Austin III as the team’s current WR2. Drafted by the Steelers in 2022, Austin now has a prime opportunity to step up and make a significant impact this season. Along with his hard work, Austin’s speed has been recognized as a key factor that could help build a strong connection with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
In their effort to surround Rodgers with as many weapons as possible, the Steelers recently acquired tight end Jonnu Smith in a trade with the Miami Dolphins. Smith possesses all the traditional qualities of a tight end, such as strength and blocking ability, but also adds valuable versatility as a receiving threat, something the Steelers likely plan to take full advantage of.
The Steelers haven’t held back this offseason, bringing in a number of skilled, proven veterans. Since many of these players are older, the team has been able to sign several without breaking the bank. While it’s hard to imagine the Steelers cutting corners when acquiring a proven wide receiver, investing doesn’t always just mean offering the biggest contract.
The Steelers Have Been Collecting Draft Capital
Through recent trades and potential compensatory picks, the Steelers have built up valuable draft capital. It’s clear that Rodgers isn’t the long-term future of the team, so the Steelers are likely planning a major move next year. Since the team doesn’t appear to be tanking for a higher draft pick, it’s likely they’ll use this draft capital strategically to make a significant impact.
Surrounded by proven veterans throughout the roster, the young players have the opportunity to learn and develop, creating a positive cycle that can benefit the team for years to come.
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