The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a wild offseason, highlighted by the decision to trade away star wide receiver Diontae Johnson. This move has raised significant concerns about the depth and talent of the wide receiver room.
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers Diontae Johnson (18) and George Pickens (14) celebrate a touchdown on the road in Miami, FL.
George Pickens is poised for a massive season, but beyond him, the roster is thin. The Steelers signed three free agent wide receivers: Quez Watkins, Van Jefferson, and Scotty Miller. They also drafted Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Additionally, Calvin Austin III is another receiver on the roster who could see an increased role in 2024.
All of these players, except for Pickens, are question marks. None have held major roles in the NFL, and none have excited Steelers fans as true number two options. However, someone in this group will need to step up and exceed expectations in 2024 to alleviate pressure on Pickens. Despite the worries among fans, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin remains confident and excited about the potential of Pittsburgh's wide receiver corps.
“I'm pleased with the work that we're getting from that group. I like the overall trajectory of it. We've got some young and developing players, some guys that are excited about showing what they're capable of.”
The Steelers' offense has struggled for several seasons, prompting the team to hire Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Smith brings an exciting offensive system that should benefit the Steelers' new weapons. However, many questions remain about how the team's depth will perform in 2024.
Ben Liebenberg / National Football League
Steelers wide receiver Van Jefferson, then of the Los Angeles Rams, hauls in a catch against the Las Vegas Raiders in December of 2022.
The Steelers' wide receiver room is full of speed, but has yet to prove its reliability. Watkins, Jefferson, Miller, and Austin all have potential, but none have held consistent, major roles in the NFL before. Wilson will be asked to take on a significant role in the offense, which is a tall order for a newcomer. Yet, several former Steelers rookies have successfully met similar challenges in the past.
Steelers' WR Room Will Have To Step Up To Free George Pickens
Pickens is the only proven talent in the wide receiver room, poised for a breakout season. The rest of the wide receivers will need to step up to alleviate pressure on Pickens and ensure the offense runs smoothly. Despite the uncertainty, Tomlin remains confident and excited about the potential of Pittsburgh's wide receiver corps. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how these players adapt to Smith's system and their roles in the offense.
Nick Cammett / Getty Images
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens makes a one-handed catch with Cleveland Browns cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. defending him during the first half of the Steelers-Browns game in 2022.
Miller is an intriguing signing for the Steelers. While he hasn't had many opportunities recently, his speed and familiarity with Smith's system make him a valuable addition. Watkins is another option with legitimate potential, capable of being an under-the-radar asset for the Steelers' offense.
Jefferson, who had a standout season in 2021 with six touchdowns and 50 receptions for 802 yards, has seen his role diminish since then but remains a proven performer in big moments.
Austin, another speedy and young receiver, is likely to see increased opportunities in 2024. On paper, the Steelers' wide receiver room may not appear strong, but with Smith's creative system and a wide receiver-by-committee approach, the group could find success. All of these receivers have potential, though none have consistently proven it during their careers.
Smith's preference for utilizing tight ends also bodes well for Pat Freiermuth, who is poised for a productive year under the new offensive scheme. The Steelers' players are excited about what Smith has introduced during OTAs, and fans will be eager to see which new wide receiver steps up in 2024. For the Steelers to break their playoff drought, the wide receiver room will need to exceed expectations and deliver solid performances.
#SteelerNation
