The Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant decision this offseason by trading away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson. Reports indicated that the Steelers organization had grown tired of the issues Johnson had caused, and they seized the opportunity to move on.
Now, the Steelers are actively searching for a reliable wide receiver to complement George Pickens. This offseason, they have been linked to virtually every available wide receiver, with many reports suggesting Pittsburgh was aiming to secure a big name. However, nothing major materialized, and the Steelers chose to address their need through free agency by bringing in Quez Watkins, Van Jefferson, and Scotty Miller. They also drafted wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
The acquisitions of Jefferson, Miller, and Watkins have not exactly thrilled Steelers fans. All three are average veteran receivers who have never had major roles in their careers. While there is excitement around drafting Wilson, expecting a rookie to step in as the wide receiver two is a tall order.
This provides Watkins with a real chance to carve out a large role in his first year in Pittsburgh. Watkins spoke to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, revealing that he views this opportunity as a chance to secure a major role in Steel City.
“For me, when I saw they traded Diontae, it was a great opportunity to potentially be a No. 2 or whatever they want me to do,” Watkins said. “It’s a good opportunity to compete for that spot.”
Watkins was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles as a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He played four seasons with the team before joining the Steelers. During his time with the Eagles, Watkins started 25 games, recorded 98 receptions for 1,249 receiving yards, and scored six touchdowns. He sees the opportunity in Pittsburgh as reminiscent of his early days with the Eagles.
“My rookie year with the Eagles, we drafted three receivers and then brought in two more. We all get to compete and make each other better.”
Fittipaldo noted that Steelers assistant GM Andy Weidl was part of the Eagles' staff when they drafted Watkins. This connection likely influenced the Steelers' decision to pursue the speedy wide receiver. Notably, Watkins was the only wide receiver from that draft class to complete his rookie contract with the Eagles.
"Steelers assistant GM Andy Weidl oversaw that draft for the Eagles. In the first round, the Eagles picked Jalen Reagor. In the fifth round, they picked John Hightower. Watkins outlasted and outperformed both of them. Reagor and Hightower played just two seasons for the Eagles, while Watkins finished out his rookie contract before signing on with the Steelers. In 2021, Watkins started 12 games and had 647 receiving yards, second only to DeVonta Smith in receiving yards among Eagles receivers that season."
The 2021 season was Watkins' best with the Eagles, where he was a consistent starter and received the most opportunities of his career. Although an injury limited him during the 2023 season, Watkins is eager to have an even better year in his first season with Pittsburgh.
In 2024, the Steelers' wide receiver room will operate by committee. Beyond Pickens, the lack of reliability is concerning. While the Steelers could still make a move to acquire a more dependable wide receiver two, as it stands today, Watkins has a genuine chance to claim that spot. Additionally, the rookie Wilson is expected to take on a significant role.
Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Is Likely To Have A Pro Bowl Season In 2024
Another key weapon for the Steelers is tight end Pat Freiermuth. With the new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, who is known for involving tight ends, Freiermuth is poised for a big year. Smith's preference for utilizing tight ends in the passing game means Freiermuth will be called upon frequently in 2024.
With all the questions surrounding the wide receiver room, the veteran Watkins has a legitimate chance to impress Steelers fans and secure a consistent role in the offense. He's eager to seize this new opportunity and excited about his potential impact.
