Steelers Are Now Eyeing 2 Game-Changing WRs in Free Agency

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a new era with Head Coach Mike McCarthy in the Steel City. The 62-year-old coach arrives with the brutal task of ending the team’s playoff-win drought. It’s no secret that the Steelers are synonymous with Super Bowl success, but they haven’t won a playoff game since the 2016 season. That prolonged struggle was a major factor in former head coach Mike Tomlin’s decision to step away after the 2025 season. Now, McCarthy faces a team in transition, with questions looming across the roster and a city eager for a return to championship contention.

One of the areas under the microscope is the wide receiver group. While the Steelers have a star in DK Metcalf, production beyond him has been inconsistent, leaving the passing game in need of a boost. McCarthy and the front office are evaluating all options to strengthen the offense, and the wide receiver room is expected to be a priority in free agency. Adding dynamic playmakers could not only improve the team’s scoring ability but also provide the quarterback with reliable weapons in critical situations.

According to CBS NFL insider Zachary Pereles, there are two exciting wide receiver options currently linked to the Steelers. Both players could bring a much-needed spark to Pittsburgh’s passing attack and help elevate the offense to playoff-caliber performance. As the team enters this new chapter under McCarthy, fans are closely watching how General Manager Omar Khan navigates free agency, hoping for bold moves that signal the Steelers are serious about returning to championship contention.

The first option that Pereles believes is in play for the Steelers is Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 offseason. Pierce has consistently wowed the football world with his deep-ball ability, establishing himself as an elite deep-field threat during his time with the Colts. 

That skill set will likely make him an expensive option, but according to Pereles, Pierce could be a perfect complement to Metcalf in the Steelers’ new offensive system. Many pundits expect Pierce to get roughly $20-30 million yearly.

The other option that Pereles has linked to Pittsburgh is Deebo Samuel, who will enter free agency after spending the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders. When healthy, Samuel has proven he can be an electrifying weapon in any team’s passing attack, finishing the season with 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns.

Many pundits do not expect Samuel to return to the Commanders in 2026. If that holds true, the Steelers could have an opportunity to pursue the 30-year-old wide receiver. While the idea of signing Samuel is exciting, Pierce may be even more appealing as a younger, 25-year-old option with immense upside. 

Still, Samuel brings a rare and unique skill set that could fit perfectly into McCarthy’s offensive scheme. Something Pierce likely wouldn’t replicate. Both are intriguing targets, but ultimately, it will depend on the direction McCarthy wants to take the team.

Steelers Won't Be Truly Rebuilding In 2026

It’s no secret that Team President Art Rooney II is not interested in a full rebuild. If the Steelers want to compete immediately, expect them to be aggressive in both the draft and free agency to improve their passing attack. 

Of course, much of that hinges on one critical question: who will be the quarterback for Pittsburgh? That’s another key decision McCarthy must resolve before the 2026 season kicks off.

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