The Pittsburgh Steelers revamped the roster in a lot of areas going into the 2025 season, but there were still some question marks that became apparent throughout training camp and the preseason contests. One of those spots was the depth at wide receiver. Pittsburgh was in a similar spot as it was ahead of the 2024 season, as there was a clear wide receiver one (WR1) on the team in DK Metcalf, but behind him in the room, there was a lot left to be desired.
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Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) alongside Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
The organization was urged by the fan base to trade for a reliable second option at wide receiver, or to go after one of the veteran wide receivers that remained on the market throughout August. A move like that did not materialize, but Pittsburgh is now addressing the room through two games. It was reported on Tuesday that the franchise has signed Isaiah Hodgins, which is a decent depth piece at receiver.
Sources: Former #Giants WR Isaiah Hodgins is signing with the #Steelers.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) September 16, 2025
Some added WR depth for Aaron Rodgers. pic.twitter.com/kWkOByloRv
Hodgins has played in the NFL for four seasons, splitting his time with the Buffalo Bills and the New York Giants. His best season came in 2022 when he caught 37 passes for nearly 400 yards and four scores. He won't be relied upon heavily in Pittsburgh, but he adds reliable and experienced depth.
Adrian Kraus / AP Photo
Steelers' Isaiah Hodgins at the start of his career during his time with the Buffalo Bills.
Some might think Hodgins could fulfill the role of kick returner after it was clear the Steelers would be making changes at that position, but that is unlikely to be the case. Hodgins has not returned kicks during his NFL career, and he has barely played any special teams. He will be coming in as a player who is expected to contribute eventually at wide receiver, and he also provides a bit of insurance in case there is an injury at receiver.
Pittsburgh will likely still be urged to make additional moves at wide receiver ahead of the trade deadline. There are some interesting names around the league that could eventually become available, but as of right now, the organization does not seem to be in any rush to do so. The offense has not been the biggest issue with the Steelers, as the defense has been what is worrisome so far through two games in the 2025 season. If any major moves could come for this roster during the 2025 season, it should be expected that they will be on that side of the ball rather than the offense.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Omar Khan during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Steelers Adding Isaiah Hodgins Is More Of The Same At Wide Receiver
Hodgins has been serviceable in his career, both with Buffalo and New York. However, he is another fringe WR3, which is what Pittsburgh already seems to have a ton of in the receiver room already. He doesn't necessarily move the needle for the offense, barring some sort of unreal chemistry getting formed with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Through two games, there are a ton of other areas to worry about on Pittsburgh's roster, especially with the amount of injuries that are stacking up on the defensive side of the football. The offensive line is also concerning, as running the ball has been somewhat of a struggle and Rodgers has been under pressure more than the franchise would like.
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