Steelers’ Calvin Austin III Welcomes A Competitive WR Room: “Business As Usual”

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted wide receiver Calvin Austin III in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he didn't get a chance to play during his rookie season due to a foot injury, which he re-injured while attempting to return to the field.

Austin's first season on the field for Pittsburgh was in 2023. Although the offense as a whole struggled, Austin showed promise and may have a bigger opportunity in 2024 to secure a consistent spot in the wide receiver lineup. In his first season playing for Pittsburgh, Austin caught 17 passes for 180 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown. He also rushed the ball 11 times for 57 yards and scored a rushing touchdown.

Despite having a limited role in 2023, Austin could see more opportunities in the upcoming season, especially after the Steelers traded away Diontae Johnson. This offseason, the Steelers brought in several wide receivers aiming to compete for playing time and make their mark. 

Austin spoke to the media following practice about the new additions to the wide receiver room. He welcomes the competition and is eager to prove his value.

“I would be like that if they told me that I had a guaranteed starting spot. If they brought in nobody or if they brought in everybody. I am a walk-on, like I literally have always had that mindset like no matter what, so nothing can change it and you know it is just business as usual.”

Austin's response could not have been scripted any better. Steelers fans will celebrate hearing a player who welcomes competition and gives such a mature answer. With his incredible speed, Austin has the potential to thrive under new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith's system. Fans are eager to see if he can step up and help fill the void left by trading Johnson.

The Steelers brought in several wide receivers who have not had major roles in the past, some being more effective than others. Among them are Quez Watkins, Van Jefferson, and Scotty Miller. All three will compete with Austin for a larger role in the offense. They are all incredibly quick, with Jefferson being the most proven of the three. While none of these additions inspire overwhelming confidence among fans, they all have potential. Austin welcomes the competition and is ready to fight for his spot.

George Pickens is set to lead the wide receiver room. Since entering the NFL, he has been consistently productive, and now, for the first time in his career, he will be the true WR1. Defenses will heavily focus on him, but he will still see a high volume of targets in this offense. It's no secret that Smith also loves involving his tight ends, and another player due for a much more involved season in the receiving game is tight end Pat Freiermuth.

Former second-round draft pick Denzel Mims is another player who should not be overlooked. He aims to revive his slow start to his NFL career and make an impact in 2024. The team signed him to a futures contract, and some pundits close to the team believe he could be a sleeper candidate for a big season.

Steelers Wide Receiver Room Will Be By Committee In 2024

The Steelers plan to get the job done by committee in their wide receiver room in 2024. While the offense has improved in many areas, the wide receiver room remains a point of uncertainty. 

However, the team does have some under-the-radar playmakers. While the Steelers' wide receiver room may not be intimidating, Austin is excited for the chance to compete and earn a spot. This competition should sharpen the unit, and the Steelers' average wide receiver room could surprise some in 2024.

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