Wide receivers DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin lll are slated for a major workload in the Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive scheme throughout 2025. Metcalf was traded from the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the offseason and is expected to be Aaron Rodgers' favorite target in the Steel City. Austin needs to have a big year as well, as the promising receiver finds himself in the final season of his rookie deal.

Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Calvin Austin III runs alongside DK Metcalf (far left) during Phase One of voluntary offseason workouts in 2025.
Many fans argue that the Steelers lack depth at the wide receiver position outside of Metcalf. Austin is a rising star who could emerge as a legitimate difference maker, but fans have expressed their concerns with Austin entering the season as the wide receiver two (WR2) behind Metcalf. People believe that the Steelers could still add depth at the position prior to Week 1, with legendary quarterback Ben Roethlisberger sharing his thoughts on a potential move at wide receiver during a recent episode of Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger.
The former Steelers quarterback said Pittsburgh should continue shopping for a legit WR2.
"Don't put it past the Steelers to make a move before the season starts," Roethlisberger stated. "They might go get a legit two. It wouldn't surprise me, let's just say that."
Roethlisberger then doubled down on his statement when asked who would be a good fit in Pittsburgh.
"I don't know how much money you have for this, that, and the other, but I think they would go and try and get a legit number two," said Roethlisberger.
Roethlisberger's comments are exciting for fans to hear. Austin is a solid wide receiver, but he isn't the most ideal candidate to have as your second option on a true contending team. Gabe Davis has remained as a potential option in free agency, but the former Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars wideout is rumored to have left the Steelers' facilities a second time without a deal in place earlier Tuesday.

Gregory Fisher / USA Today Sports
Former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Gabe Davis attempts to haul in a catch while being guarded by former Steelers defender Minkah Fitzpatrick during a professional football game in Orchard Park, NY.
Roman Wilson will likely begin the year as Pittsburgh's WR3. Wilson is a second year receiver out of Michigan and will look to make an impact after his rookie season was spoiled by injuries. The former Wolverine could challenge Austin for the secondary receiver roll at some point, as both players are rising stars that are due for big seasons.
Steelers' Interest In Terry McLaurin Continues To Loom Large
The Washington Commanders have recently made headlines with two of their top offensive weapons rumored to be traded in the near future. Terry McLaurin and Brian Robinson Jr. have been shopped around the league over the past few weeks and the Commanders are rumored to have an extremely hefty asking price. Pittsburgh has continued to show interest in adding a receiver throughout the offseason, but Washington purportedly wanted tight end Pat Freiermuth and a second round pick in exchange for the superstar wide receiver.
Washington purportedly wants a 2nd and Freiermuth for McLaurin???? No dice. pic.twitter.com/K6BOQHYMfv
โ Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) August 19, 2025
Freiermuth and a second round pick for McLaurin would have been an absolute blockbuster of a trade to say the least. McLaurin is one of the best wide receivers in all of football and his presence across the field from Metcalf would instantly solidify the Steelers with one of the better offensive units in the league. Pittsburgh will more than likely continue shopping for a secondary option behind Metcalf, but time continues to tick as Week 1 is officially right around the corner.

Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post
Commanders' Terry McLaurin points to the crowd after scoring a touchdown.
Roethlisberger shares a similar opinion to many Steelers fans and insiders. The lack of depth at wide receiver is apparent, and Austin's recent injury history has not shed a positive light on the situation. Austin is still expected to play a key role throughout 2025, but Pittsburgh will likely continue their pursuit of a true WR2 behind Metcalf.
Are you comfortable with Calvin Austin lll as the Steelers' primary backup wideout entering Week 1? What would you be willing to give up in order to acquire a receiver of Terry McLaurin's caliber? Let us know in the comments down below!
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