Steelers Receive New Criticism Surrounding A Crucial Position On Offense: "Don't Think It's Sustainable"

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense got the job done against an elite Cleveland Browns defense on Sunday. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 235 yards and two touchdowns and the future Hall of Famer continues to look more comfortable as the season progresses. Pittsburgh could be shorthanded on offense for Thursday night's matchup however, as Calvin Austin lll's status currently remains up in the air.

Austin has been a very solid second option behind DK Metcalf to begin the 2025 season at wideout. The talented playmaker has made a number of big plays over the first month of the year and his presence will undoubtedly be missed should he continue to miss time. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly recently took a moment to share his thoughts on the current state of Pittsburgh's offense and believes General Manager Omar Khan and his staff should be on the market for an additional receiver.

Kaboly also claimed that the current layout of the offense will be unsustainable across an entire season.

"I don't think it's sustainable throughout the season," Kaboly admitted. "That's my argument. I just don't see how you can move forward on the season with six offensive lineman, a tight end, and ignore a wide receiver two (WR2)."

Kaboly continued to double down on his claim, as the insider believes acquiring an additional receiver could be essential.

"I just can't see that happening and being a sustainable offense," Kaboly noted.

The Steelers were at the center of wide receiver rumors throughout the entire 2025 offseason. Austin will once again be the second option when he returns from injury, but Rodgers may turn to other playmakers on Thursday if Austin is unable to go. A move involving a wide receiver continues to be a legitimate possibility in the near future, but the team could opt to use the talent already on the roster as well.

Roman Wilson could have an excellent opportunity to shine if Austin is out on Thursday. Wilson was the Steelers' third round pick in 2024 and could be in prime position for another real chance to showcase his skills. He had just one catch in Austin's absence on Sunday against the Browns. 

Steelers' Tight End Room Could See Additional Targets Against Cincinnati 

The Steelers could be shorthanded against the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday night. The tight end room will need to step up if Austin is unable to play, and Jonnu Smith may emerge as a top target throughout the matchup. Smith was acquired in an offseason deal with the Miami Dolphins and the veteran tight end had a career year in 2024.

Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington could see an increase in targets as well. Freiermuth is a very talented player who has struggled to get the ball in 2025, but that could quickly change if Austin is unavailable. Washington has excelled as a blocking tight end this season, but the young player could emerge as an extremely dangerous red zone threat sooner rather than later. His game against the Browns in Week 6 was arguably his best of his professional career thus far.

Pittsburgh has been tied to a number of different playmakers over the past few months to acquire. Austin missing an extended period of time would be a major blow to the offense as a whole, and a move involving a receiver may emerge as a very real possibility.  The Steelers will face the Bengals on Thursday night as Pittsburgh will look to take a commanding lead in the AFC North.

Do you think the Steelers should trade for a wide receiver? Do you trust Calvin Austin lll as a legitimate second option behind DK Metcalf? Let us know what you think in the comments down below!

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