Smoke Behind Steelers Targeting Top Free Agent Wide Receiver Is Rising

There has been plenty of talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers possibly selecting two wide receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team desperately needs help opposite of DK Metcalf, and the offense could have several new faces with the hopes of becoming a top unit in the league. Regardless of who is under center at the quarterback position, General Manager Omar Khan will be tasked with putting an elite collective on the field for the first time since Ben Roethlisberger was around. Consistency is key and loading the depth chart with capable pass-catchers has to be at the top of the priority list.

The Steelers have plenty of draft capital to get aggressive and all options are likely on the table. Additionally, the organization has one of the better financial situations throughout the entire league. This will allow Khan and co. to get moderately aggressive if they want to. The crop of free agent wide receivers isn't all that stout, but some reliable veterans are going to be ready for negotiations.

Insider Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette covers the franchise and held a fan chat on Tuesday to discuss where things stand after the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. When asked about some external free agents to keep an eye on, he didn't go into full detail, but the reporter did throw in a name that will get fans in the Steel City excited.

"I'm writing about some of the best outside free agents who might make sense for the Steelers later in the week, but I'll give you a little preview," Fittipaldo wrote. "One WR who makes sense is Mike Evans. He's an older player and would not command a huge contract. They're going to draft at least one and maybe two receivers in this draft. They would need a good mentor who can show them the NFL ropes. DK Metcalf is a good teammate, but he doesn't strike me as the mentor type."

Mike Evans isn't just any veteran. He is one of the best pass-catchers of his generation and will be testing our free agency for the first time. It's not going to be cheap to sign him, and he could absolutely return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For now, however, teams will be able to negotiate with him once the legal tampering period begins on Monday. This presents a unique opportunity for the Steelers to shock the fan base and relay the message that the front office means business.

Fittipaldo's comments hold weight, as Metcalf might not be the perfect role model for rookies to look up to. He did of course recently get suspended two games for an altercation with a Detroit Lions fan. Evans, on the other hand, has always been viewed as a standout player and person in all facets. The Steelers would be set up for success with Metcalf, Evans, and two rookies catching passes in 2026.

Evans is a competitor and will want to win, but he already has a Super Bowl under his belt. This will ultimately be considered when possibly finding a new home, but he also is likely looking to cash in on what could be his final professional contract. Wherever he goes — if he doesn't stay in Tampa — that stint could solidify his legacy and place him in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. That is, if he hasn't already earned himself a spot.

Steelers Have No Reason Not To Reach Out To Evans' Camp

The NFL Draft doesn't take place until the end of April. Free agency happens roughly six weeks prior. If Pittsburgh does indeed welcome Aaron Rodgers back, Evans is the perfect wide receiver to add. The two probably have a ton of respect for one another, all to go along with over three decades of experience combined. Khan would immediately be sending a message to the AFC North if he makes an unexpected move that leads to Metcalf and Evans dominating opposing defenses in 2026.

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