In addition to the quarterback controversy making headlines, the Pittsburgh Steelers have an enigma around their wide receiver
rotation to unravel.
George Pickens, who gained 1,140 yards in 2023, is the clear leader in the room. However, there are a lot of fresh faces and few well-
known contributions in other places. With Allen Robinson and Diontae Johnson gone, Calvin Austin III of Memphis is the second-best
true receiver.
The Steelers, led by their new offensive coordinator and former Atlanta Falcons coach Arthur Smith, went out and acquired some
inexpensive veteran players, including Scotty Miller and Van Jefferson. When necessary, one can rely on players like Marquez
Callaway and Quez Watkins. Of
However, Pickens’ backing group isn’t exactly thrilling, is it? For this reason, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Pittsburgh is still
actively looking for a second serious threat at wide receiver.
During his and Jeremy Fowler’s preseason training camp visit, Graziano noted, “I expect the Steelers to add a wide receiver if one
becomes available in a trade as the preseason unfolds.”
Graziano believes that since a trade is unlikely to happen in the upcoming weeks, Jefferson, Austin, Wilson, and the others will have
more opportunities.
“But nothing seems imminent on that front as of right now, so the guys in camp have a chance to try out for the No. 2 wide receiver
spot behind George Pickens.”
Some of those receivers were mentioned by Graziano as possible backup alternatives in the event that a deal fails to materialize.
From the conversations I had there, veteran Van Jefferson (who played for OC Arthur Smith in Atlanta last year) is someone to watch,
and the Steelers have high expectations for Calvin Austin III as well. Roman Wilson, a rookie, has an opportunity to play slot receiver.
If the Steelers want to hold a competition for the other starting receiver spots, they have alternatives and plenty of depth at the wide
receiver position. However, Pickens isn’t their star player, though that may change if a tempting trade option arises.
Jefferson is
