The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired DK Metcalf to become the kind of receiver capable of changing games with one catch. Two weeks into the 2026 season, however, the conversation surrounding him has shifted from explosive plays to missed opportunities. His drops are now creating a concern that reaches beyond anything recorded in the box score.
Eric Canha / Imagn Images
Steelers' DK Metcalf catches the ball late in a loss to the New England Patriots in 2026.
Metcalf caught four passes for 27 yards during Pittsburgh's 20-3 loss to the New England Patriots, giving him eight receptions for 67 yards through two games. Those numbers are underwhelming, but his response after an early mistake may be more troubling. If one drop affects later targets, the problem cannot be solved simply by calling his number more often.
That possibility became the focus Tuesday on Steelers Collective when Noah Strackbein asked Mark Kaboly about Metcalf's recurring drops. Strackbein borrowed a familiar line from former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin to frame the discussion. Kaboly then explained why the same mistake appearing in consecutive weeks deserves attention.
"In the words of Mike Tomlin, two is a trend," Strackbein said.
The remark placed Metcalf's uneven start into a much different category than a single unfortunate play. One drop can disappear into the chaos of a game, but repeated mistakes begin demanding an explanation.
Kaboly's assessment goes beyond pointing out unreliable hands. He is questioning whether an early failure changes how Metcalf plays the remainder of the afternoon. That could explain why a proven explosive receiver has looked so ordinary during Pittsburgh's uneven start.
"Well, McCarthy said that too," Kaboly said. "If it happens back-to-back weeks, then you need to start worrying about it. That means we should start worrying about DK Metcalf. I am just shocked that a guy with that much experience in the league, that many catches and that many big plays can get it in his head that quickly, where you can see it affects him. If he drops a ball early, it affects him the rest of the game."
The Steelers did not give Metcalf an easy assignment in New England, where Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez followed him extensively. Still, Pittsburgh did not make its major investment in Metcalf so favorable matchups could determine whether he makes an impact. Elite receivers are expected to survive difficult coverage, secure catchable passes and occasionally rescue their quarterback when the play is imperfect.
Acknowledging a concern is not declaring the experiment a failure. Metcalf has played only two games in 2026, and his track record shows he can recover quickly. The alarming part is that Pittsburgh's offense lacks the protection, rhythm and secondary production needed to comfortably wait. Also, it's not like his 2025 season was much better. Metcalf is running out of time to be the player they need him to be.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers publicly backed Metcalf after the loss and made it clear that he intends to keep feeding him. That support matters because a receiver battling frustration needs to know the next opportunity is coming. It also increases the pressure on Metcalf to reward that trust rather than allowing one mistake to multiply into several empty possessions.
Steelers Need DK Metcalf To Stop One Drop From Becoming Two Problems
Pittsburgh cannot permit a dropped pass to create both a lost play and a diminished star for the rest of the game. Metcalf does not need to be perfect, but he must be mentally available on the next snap regardless of what happened on the previous one. A veteran with his experience should be equipped to reset before the offense returns to the huddle.
The Steelers also bear responsibility for helping him regain momentum. Mike McCarthy can manufacture an early completion or move Metcalf around the formation before asking him to win downfield. Scheming confidence is not coddling when the player remains central to the passing offense.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike McCarthy stands on the field and looks into the distance with his play sheet in hand as the team works out during a 2026 training camp practice at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Kaboly's observation will become especially revealing the next time Metcalf lets a catchable ball hit the ground. If he immediately answers with a difficult reception or explosive gain, the concern begins to fade. If his performance again unravels, Pittsburgh may be dealing with a trend far more damaging than two drops.
What do you believe is really behind Metcalf's slow start, and should the Steelers keep forcing him opportunities? Please share your Steelers takes with me on X at @anthonyghalkias, and follow along for more Pittsburgh analysis.
#SteelerNation