Steelers' Arthur Smith Reveals Another Reliable Wide Receiver Is Battling Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receiver room isn’t in awful shape heading into the 2025 season, however many Steelers fans do feel it could be better. The Steelers have DK Metcalf leading the way, giving them a true WR1 who can dominate opposing defenses. Behind him, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson are expected to step into bigger roles as the second and third options. 

After those three, veteran Ben Skowronek and speedster Scotty Miller appear to be the favorites to round out the depth chart. Those five are considered the most likely locks to make the roster, though the Steelers could decide to carry one more wideout depending on special teams contributions and overall roster balance. Veteran wide receiver Robert Woods is also fighting for a roster spot. Though he is facing an uphill battle after struggling in the preseason.

On Monday, it was revealed by Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, during a conversation with Steelers insider Mike DeFabo, that Skowronek is currently battling a toe injury. While Smith didn’t indicate that the issue was season-threatening, it’s certainly a development worth monitoring given the Steelers’ lack of proven depth at wide receiver behind Metcalf. 

Skowronek was brought in ahead of the 2024 season to provide size, versatility, and reliable hands to complement the smaller, faster receivers on the roster, so any setback could create additional concerns for a position group already viewed by fans and analysts as thin. The Steelers wide receiver room is going to be alright as long as every player can stay healthy. Sadly, in the NFL, that's rarely the case. This is exactly why many fans want General Manager Omar Khan to make one more reliable move and bring in another veteran wide receiver.

If Skowronek is sidelined for any length of time, it could open the door for another wide receiver to make the roster, possibly one of the younger players trying to fight for a spot during training camp. Injuries at this time of year can quickly shift depth chart battles, and with the Steelers’ offense still working to establish its rhythm under Smith, consistency from the wideouts is critical. 

Steelers' Wide Receiver Room Must Stay Healthy In 2025 Season

While Metcalf provides stability at the top, the Steelers will need consistent contributions from their depth pieces to avoid becoming one-dimensional. That makes Skowronek’s status something to monitor closely as Pittsburgh moves through preseason preparations. A toe injury may not sound devastating, but these types of setbacks can linger and impact a player’s ability to cut, run routes, and play with full explosiveness. Even a seemingly minor toe issue can grow into a bigger concern if it lingers into the regular season.

Steelers fans will be hoping Skowronek can return to the field quickly, not only for his role as a depth receiver but also for his impact on special teams. He has built a reputation as a reliable gunner and a player willing to do the dirty work that often goes unnoticed but makes a real difference over the course of a season. His toughness and versatility add value that extends beyond the stat sheet.

Skowronek is the type of player who thrives on stacking small wins. Whether it is making a key block, downing a punt inside the 10, or hauling in a tough third down catch, he finds ways to contribute in meaningful moments. Those efforts add up over time and have already made him a favorite among the Steelers coaching staff. For now, the focus will remain on his recovery and how quickly he can re-establish himself as a dependable piece of the roster.

Are you worried about the wide receiver room for the 2025 season? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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