The Pittsburgh Steelers were lucky to get a fantastic rookie performance from Germie Bernard in Week 5. The wideout had six catches for 80 yards in the 34-22 victory. Unfortunately, though, the matchup did not come without consequences. Roman Wilson has been enjoying the best stretch of his career, but departed the matchup due to injury. Early reports are suggesting that he is going to be on the sideline for potentially a couple of weeks. This is going to lead to some serious depth issues, especially with Michael Pittman Jr. already on Injured Reserve (IR) due to a foot problem.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) stands on the field and looks off into the distance while the team works out during a training camp practice at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Typically, it would make sense for the Steelers to seek out a former Aaron Rodgers target to join the roster. That, however, might not be the case depending on what General Manager Omar Khan and Head Coach Mike McCarthy want to do. There are several options on the practice squad, but it could make sense to take a dip into the free agency market.
The goal likely won't be to sign someone who can jump in immediately and play a ton of snaps. Pittsburgh needs a reliable veteran who can understand an offense and chip in when needed. Not only did Wilson go down, but so did Ben Skowronek, who is one of the team's most reliable special teams weapons. It would come off as a surprise if some kind of signing does not occur.
This is why it was an interesting development on Monday when 93.7 The Fan's Andrew Fillipponi connected a Super Bowl-winning wide receiver to the Steelers. While he may be considered as a role player, former Kansas City Chiefs pass-catcher Justin Watson might be an attractive free-agent target to pursue as Pittsburgh prepares for Week 6.
"Rumor: The Steelers could sign free agent wide receiver Justin Watson. South Fayette product. Won Super Bowls with Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes," Fillipponi posted on X. "Would be a very good depth WR signing. Stay tuned."
While some may prefer a dynamic weapon like Tyreek Hill, Watson could have been just what the Steelers needed. Unfortunately, he is going to be playing elsewhere, per a report on Monday afternoon shortly after Fillipponi's comments.
Chiefs are signing their former WR Justin Watson to their practice squad.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 12, 2026
Watson only was able to play in three games for the Houston Texans in 2025, but was worth a dart throw if healthy. Pittsburgh doesn't need anyone to show up and put up big numbers. This is exactly why Fillipponi noted that it would be a very good depth signing for Khan and Co. Some may not view it as a very attractive move; however, it could be exactly what is needed. It's fair to note that he re-signed to the Chiefs' practice squad, so he could be brought directly onto another active roster.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Omar Khan stands on the field surface and looks off into the distance as the team participates in a 2026 training camp practice at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Watson also knows what it takes to be a part of a winning locker room. He has three Super Bowl rings to his credit thanks to the tenure with the Chiefs. He is likely someone who could have come in and known exactly what is needed to please Rodgers. The Steelers now have three of their six best wideouts injured and/or banged up. So, whomever is called upon is going to need to be reliable.
Watson is from South Fayette, Pennsylvania. He has spent time in three different cities during his career, and he may have a legitimate interest in playing for the Steelers. While his best professional campaign only saw him have 460 receiving yards, he would work in on special teams as well. Pittsburgh needs a contributor who is selfless, and Watson might have fit that mold perfectly. Unfortunately, his deal with the Chiefs makes it less likely at this point.
Steelers Could Reach Out To Trade For A Familiar Face
With Watson in mind, it's fair to consider other veteran wide receivers. Marquez Valdes-Scantling has familiarity with both Rodgers and McCarthy. He played in the Steel City in 2025, and could be back again. The pass-catcher hauled in two passes for the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, but his current team sits at 0-5. It could make a lot of sense to accept a late-round selection for the wide receiver if Khan is willing to give up just a little bit of capital to help Rodgers out.
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