Steelers Get Surprise Second Chance At Hollywood Brown After Eagles Release Him

The Pittsburgh Steelers still have an opportunity to improve their wide receiver room, even after coming away from the NFL trade deadline without making an addition. A new option has suddenly become available, and it is one the organization should at least consider.

The Philadelphia Eagles are waiving veteran wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The decision reportedly came after both sides agreed that moving on would be beneficial, giving the former first-round pick an opportunity to find a new team for the remainder of the season.

For Pittsburgh, the timing is interesting. The Steelers were connected to several receivers before the trade deadline, including Brown, as they searched for another player who could contribute alongside DK Metcalf. They ultimately did not make a move, but Brown's availability creates another opportunity to address that need without surrendering draft capital.

Schultz reported that Brown is expected to land with a playoff contender, which could make Pittsburgh an appealing destination. The Steelers are trying to remain competitive in the AFC, and adding an experienced receiver could give Aaron Rodgers another option as the team enters the most important portion of its schedule.

Brown's 2026 production has been limited, but his previous season with the Kansas City Chiefs shows why he could still attract interest. He finished the 2025 campaign with 49 receptions for 587 yards and five touchdowns. That is a respectable season for a receiver who could potentially be available at a relatively low cost.

Steelers Could Give Aaron Rodgers Another Downfield Threat

One of the biggest issues with Pittsburgh's receiving group has been finding consistent production. The Steelers have explored multiple options, but they have not found the right opportunity to bring in another established receiver.

Brown would not necessarily arrive as a player expected to immediately become the team's top target. Instead, his biggest contribution could come from providing speed and another legitimate deep threat.

Throughout his career, Brown has been known for his ability to stretch defenses vertically. The Baltimore Ravens selected him in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and he recorded a 1,000-yard season with the Ravens in 2021. He has also spent time with the Arizona Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs, giving him experience in multiple offensive systems.

That background could be valuable in Pittsburgh. Rodgers has shown throughout his career that he can take advantage of receivers who create separation and give him opportunities to attack downfield. Brown's speed could force opposing defenses to respect the deep ball, potentially creating more room for Metcalf and the rest of the offense.

There are legitimate concerns, though. Brown has dealt with injuries, and his production with Philadelphia this season has been limited. He recorded just five receptions for 63 yards before the Eagles decided to move on. Pittsburgh would need to determine whether those struggles are related to his health, his role in Philadelphia's offense or a decline in his overall effectiveness. Still, the potential reward could make the decision worthwhile.

The Steelers would not have to surrender a draft pick to acquire Brown if he clears waivers and becomes a free agent. That is an important distinction after Pittsburgh chose not to make a trade at the deadline. Rather than paying draft compensation for a receiver, the organization could potentially add a veteran without giving up future assets.

There is also an opportunity to bring him into a situation where his role is more clearly defined. Pittsburgh does not need Brown to carry the passing game. It needs another player who can contribute when defenses concentrate on Metcalf and give Rodgers an additional option when looking for an explosive play.

Brown is not a guaranteed solution, and his recent production makes it difficult to view him as a major upgrade without reservations. But his experience, speed and previous success give him enough appeal to warrant consideration.

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