Steelers' Zach Azzanni Revealing He Has To Pull Calvin Austin “Out Of Practice Every Day” And For Good Reason

The Pittsburgh Steelers have yet to fully unleash the potential of their speedy young wide receiver, Calvin Austin III. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Austin’s rookie season was derailed by a foot injury that landed him on season-ending injured reserve. Although he returned in 2023, his role in the offense remained limited, preventing him from making a consistent impact.

During the 2023 season, Austin recorded 17 receptions for 180 receiving yards and one touchdown. He also contributed to the running game with 11 carries for 57 rushing yards and an additional rushing touchdown. Despite these flashes of talent, Austin struggled to find his footing in an offense that faced significant challenges throughout the season. However, there is optimism that he will take on a bigger role in 2024.

The Steelers brought in Zach Azzanni, a no-nonsense wide receivers coach, who has instilled a new level of intensity in training camp. Azzanni has been seen pushing players like George Pickens to their limits and even doing push-ups alongside his receivers, setting a high standard of effort and commitment. His presence has brought a different energy to the wide receiver room, and it’s clear that he’s determined to get the best out of his players.

Azzanni recently spoke to the media, praising Austin’s work ethic. He revealed that Austin practices so hard that Azzanni often finds himself pulling the young receiver out of practice every day out of concern for his well-being.

"Calvin's looked great. Did a really nice job being a leader. Extremely coachable, tough kid. As we get into start game planning, now you start moving guys around, see what he's got. But man, just really fun to coach. That kid goes hard. I gotta pull him out of practice every day 'cause he goes so hard."

The Steelers' new quarterback, Russell Wilson, has been vocal about his optimism for the wide receiver room, often singling out Austin as a standout. Wilson believes that Austin’s exceptional speed will make him a dangerous weapon in the 2024 season. 

With the Steelers trading away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, this offseason, there’s a pressing need for someone to step up and fill the void. Many pundits suggest that Austin could be that player.

Austin’s speed is no secret—he clocked an impressive 4.32-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Speed like that is a rare and unteachable asset, and it’s a significant part of what makes Austin so intriguing. 

But it’s not just his speed that’s turning heads. Azzanni and Steelers fans have been excited by Austin’s emergence as a leader. Despite only having one season of game experience, Austin has made it a priority to be a vocal presence in the locker room, demonstrating maturity beyond his years.

Steelers Confident They Can Bring Brandon Aiyuk To Pittsburgh

With Azzanni’s intense coaching style and Austin’s eagerness to improve, the Steelers may have a breakout star in the making. While the team has been linked to trade talks for another wide receiver, particularly with the San Francisco 49ers and Brandon Aiyuk. 

The Steelers feel as if they have a good chance to get Aiyuk to Pittsburgh. If a trade doesn’t materialize, Austin will have a prime opportunity to make a significant leap in the 2024 season.

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