Steelers' Zach Azzanni Emphatically Stressed Calvin Austin lll As Wide Receiver Two

The Pittsburgh Steelers currently find themselves lacking significant depth in the wide receiver room. After the news broke that free agent quarterback and future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers would be signing with Pittsburgh, the headlines quickly shifted back to the team's intentions towards bolstering their playmaking depth on offense. With DK Metcalf solidifying himself as Pittsburgh's clear cut wide receiver one (WR1), both Calvin Austin lll and Roman Wilson are expected to compete for a larger role in 2025 through training camp.

Austin lll, who is reportedly continuing to turn heads throughout the offseason, is emerging as a major weapon for Arthur Smith's offense. Austin lll may prove to be the perfect fit across Metcalf as well, as the former Memphis Tiger has elite speed and would give Metcalf a lot more room to work with. While speaking to the media earlier Wednesday morning, Steelers Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni gave his thoughts as to what role he feels Austin lll might play on offense in 2025.

"There's a lot of really cool little pieces there that are sneaky," Azzanni stated. "Everyone's downplaying and underplaying our group right now, I love it that way. I don't really want anyone looking at us anyway. It will be good." 

Azzanni then went on to speak about Austin lll, and the different roles he may play throughout the season.

"So, I think that two spot is all Calvin's right now. Him and DK are such different players, that there is going to be plays where he's the one guy, because that's his route. And vice versa, because they are so different," Azzanni explained.

Azzanni's comments should not come as a surprise to many, as Austin lll is widely regarded as the best receiving talent on the Steelers' roster outside of Metcalf. Metcalf, who was acquired in a trade earlier this offseason from the Seattle Seahawks, should have no problem finding his role in Pittsburgh and is expected to take on a major role throughout the season. As Austin lll continues to emerge as a legitimate wide receiver two (WR2), the Steelers are still expected to keep all options on the table.

Drafted by Pittsburgh as a fourth round pick in 2022, Austin lll has continued to showcase his potential by improving every year. He was a star at the college level as well, as the former Tiger found himself among the top receivers in all of college football, despite originally being a walk-on. 

Currently in the final year of his rookie deal, Austin lll will look to make a massive impact on the Steelers' offense in hopes of boosting his stock next offseason.

Steelers' Aaron Rodgers' Relationship With Mike Tomlin May Play A Major Role In 2025 Success

With Rodgers officially under contract in Pittsburgh, the four-time league MVP is expected to be one of the more promising quarterbacks the Steelers have had in recent years. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin reportedly played a major role in Rodgers' decision as well, with Rodgers publicly showcasing his respect and praise for Pittsburgh's long-time head man throughout his entire career. Tomlin, who has faced off against Rodgers multiple times including in Super Bowl XLV, has publicly displayed his respect and admiration towards the former Green Bay Packers legend as well.

The relationship between Rodgers and Tomlin will ultimately affect Rodgers' overall season. This will in turn affect players like Austin. Despite his age, Rodgers was widely regarded as the top remaining quarterback on the market and may benefit greatly from having Tomlin as his head coach. Rodgers may prove to make an impact off the field as well, as the 20-year veteran will be an excellent mentor.

Do you think Calvin Austin lll will have a breakout year? Comment below!

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