The Pittsburgh Steelers stunned fans with the offseason trade of Diontae Johnson, raising speculation that they'll prioritize drafting a wide receiver. The lingering question is when they'll make that move and at what pick. Despite the absence of market activity for wide receivers, the Steelers urgently need someone to complement George Pickens as a starter.
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Steelers' George Pickens grabs a 41-yard pass against the Ravens.
One plausible scenario is for the Steelers to use their second-round pick to acquire one of the many highly skilled wide receivers available. Alternatively, they might opt for a wideout with one of their third-round selections, or possibly even in the fourth. While the exact strategy remains uncertain, it's evident that they'll be targeting a wide receiver. Here are four potential candidates the Steelers could consider in the upcoming draft after round one.
1.) Roman Wilson
Wilson is an enticing prospect, albeit perhaps the least feasible choice among the options presented. Acquiring him would necessitate the Steelers either utilizing a second-round pick, as he is unlikely to go in round one barring any expected changes.. While both scenarios appear improbable, Wilson's remarkable talent as a wide receiver from Michigan suggests he would seamlessly integrate into the Pittsburgh offense.
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Michigan WR Roman Wilson runs with the football.
His potential pairing with Pickens holds significant promise. Noteworthy is Wilson's performance in 2023, amassing 48 receptions for 789 yards and 12 touchdowns. Selecting Wilson in the draft could effectively address the void left by Johnson within the Steelers' lineup.
2.) Troy Franklin
Franklin enjoyed an exceptionally productive season at Oregon in 2023, amassing impressive statistics: 81 catches for 1,383 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. As a downfield burner, he possesses the speed and agility to challenge defenses effectively. Currently projected to be selected in the third round of the draft, Franklin holds promise as an exciting addition to the Steelers' roster.
His ability to bewilder defensive backs, combined with his adeptness at running precise routes, makes him a reliable option. Should the Steelers secure him in the third round as projected, Franklin could potentially emerge as a day one starter at wide receiver, sparking enthusiasm about his potential impact in Pittsburgh.
3.) Ricky Pearsall
Pearsall is an electrifying route runner with a keen ability to anticipate defensive backs' movements. While his touchdown count at Florida in 2023 may not have been staggering, his productivity remained impressive. He secured 65 receptions for 965 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his consistent performance on the field. Projected as a third-round pick, his stock has been steadily climbing in recent assessments.
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Florida WR Ricky Pearsall makes a one handed catch.
With exceptional ball-catching skills, he serves as a dependable target for the Steelers. His proficiency in vertical attacks against defensive backs is particularly noteworthy. Utilized frequently as a slot wide receiver and frequently put in motion by the Gators, he demonstrates versatility in his role on the field.
4.) Jermaine Burton
Burton, a projected third-round pick, excelled at Alabama in 2023. Amassing 39 receptions for 798 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, he showcased his prowess on the field. Expected to fill the role of a field-stretching wide receiver two in the NFL, Burton brings to the table reliable hands and an exceptional knack for tracking down the football. Moreover, his solid route-running skills make him a seamless fit alongside Pickens.
Steelers Drafting A Wide Receiver Adds Excitement For 2024 Season
The prospect of heading into the draft in need of a capable starting wide receiver may seem daunting. However, with this year's draft class brimming with talent and the Steelers boasting an ample number of picks, they are poised to secure a player who could step in as a day one starter. This is precisely what the team requires.
While none of the listed wide receivers are guaranteed successes, busts can occur across the board. However, among them, three possess projected third-round talent levels, presenting the Steelers with potential targets if they happen to fall to the third round. Alternatively, should the team opt for a riskier strategy and select Wilson earlier, it's unlikely anyone in Pittsburgh would object to such a move.
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