Steelers WR Calvin Austin Now Drawing Fascinating Comparison To Three-Time All-Pro

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made several major moves this offseason that have significantly reshaped their roster. While some of these changes have brought exciting new talent to the team, they have also created noticeable gaps in key positions. These changes, both the additions and the departures, have created a great deal of discussion and speculation across the media. Now, with offseason programs in full swing, fans and analysts alike are finally getting a closer look at how the new and returning players are beginning to mesh, and how the team is working to fill those gaps on the field.

While the Steelers have addressed several major roster gaps this offseason, the most prominent and ongoing question remains in the wide receiver room. Among the discussions surrounding this position, Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni recently made headlines by naming Calvin Austin III as the team's current second wide receiver. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts, with some expressing excitement and others raising concerns about depth and experience. Recently, Steelers Insider Mark Kaboly published a piece where he drew a compelling comparison between Austin and a highly accomplished NFL receiver, one who has earned three All-Pro honors and has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice.

"Austin is small (listed as 5-9, 160), but you know who else has put together a pretty good career, despite being small in stature? Tyler Lockett is listed as 5-10, 180, but is a tick slower than Austin," Kaboly wrote. 

Tyler Lockett is a wide receiver for the Tennessee Titans and is known for being fast, reliable, and a smart player on the field. He’s been one of the most consistent playmakers for years and has had a strong connection with his quarterbacks. Lockett is great at running precise routes, catching tough passes, and making big plays when it matters most. Even though he’s not the biggest player, his speed and skill help him stand out. Off the field, he’s also known for being humble and hardworking, which has made him a fan favorite. 

This comparison from Kaboly does sound a lot like Austin, but it’s actually even more encouraging when you take a closer look. For starters, Lockett is currently 32 years old and has already built a long, successful career in the NFL. Austin, on the other hand, is just 26, meaning he’s still in the early stages of his career with plenty of room to grow and develop. This youth gives him the advantage of time to refine his skills and build chemistry with his teammates. 

Additionally, Kaboly pointed out that Austin may actually be slightly faster than Lockett. That extra burst of speed could make a real difference on the field, especially when facing off against some of the league’s fastest and most aggressive defenses.

Another important factor to consider is the value of having a strong connection with the quarterback. Throughout his time with the Seattle Seahawks, Lockett built great relationships with his quarterbacks, even as they changed over the years. This helped him remain a consistent and trusted target. A similar opportunity now exists for Austin, as the Steelers enter a new season with future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers leading the offense. 

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If Austin is able to develop that same type of chemistry with Rodgers, it could greatly elevate his role and make him an essential part of the Steelers’ offense. In fact, early reports suggest that Austin’s playing style could complement Rodgers’ approach quite well. This has sparked comparisons to the connection Rodgers once had with former NFL wide receiver Randall Cobb. Cobb became a standout player largely due to the strong bond and on-field chemistry he built with Rodgers, something Austin now has the potential to replicate in Pittsburgh.

Do you think Austin will have a big impact on the field this year? Let us know in the comments below!

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