Steelers Could Have Big Offensive Boost Coming With Calvin Austin III In 2023

The Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2022 NFL Draft took three skill positions in the first 150 picks. New franchise quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round, and rising star wide receiver out of the University of Georgia, George Pickens with the next pick. Another skill position was taken with the 138th pick that the fans did not get to see much of, wide receiver Calvin Austin III. 

Austin is a speedy receiver from Memphis University who ran a 4.32 40-yard dash at his combine and was sidelined for all of the 2022 season with a Lisfranc injury. Lisfranc injuries are something that must be dealt with delicately, especially for a player who depends on speed and quickness of his game. 

Austin is an undersized player standing at under 5'8", being a smaller player is something Austin changes and uses to his advantage. Referenced by Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner as the toughest wide receiver he's guarded when coming out of college, lets Steeler fans know that he could turn into something special. With the Steelers wide receivers looking for a third player to announce themselves, the role could be Austin's to lose. 

Steelers WR Depth

The Steelers' top two wide receivers, Pickens and Diontae Johnson are running most of the routes for the Steelers offense, both being special NFL talents. Steven Sims (now with the Houston Texans), who seemed to be emerging was returning punts and kicks as well as getting game reps in for the wide receiver position. A lot of things that Sims did for the Steelers are what Austin does best. Catching screens and running the end around on a handoff or a pitch is where this player with blazing speed could fit in. Four Steelers wide receivers have rushing attempts, with Sims having the most at 13 attempts. The Steelers have gotten criticism throughout the year about being predictable. Austin could provide a spark across the middle or around the edge where the Steelers need it most. 

Austin was ready to make an impact in 2022, but the only time fans got to see Austin in action was at training camp at St. Vincent College before the 2022 season. Videos showed the speed of the young receiver, and how deadly he might be once he gets onto the field. The wide receiver core had a rough year stats-wise, having no 1,000-yard receivers and only 5 TD's for the group, one going to Chase Claypool who is no longer on the team. The receiver core needs a spark with Pickett having the full season with the group in 2023. Austin could be the one that provides that Steelers that spark. 

What do you think the Steelers should do at wide receiver this year? Who will become the WR3 for the team this year? Let us know on Twitter and in the comments below. 

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