The Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed Zach Azzanni as their new wide receivers coach. Azzanni is known for his no-nonsense, tough, but caring approach. With extensive experience coaching at both the Division I level and in the NFL, he has a track record of success. His players respond well to him, and the Steelers are excited to have him on their staff. Azzanni has already been making an impact on his new wide receiver group in Pittsburgh.
STEELERS.COM
Pittsburgh Steelers' Zach Azzanni speaks to the media about his wide receiver room.
The Steelers have faced challenges with their wide receivers in recent seasons. This led to the trade of Diontae Johnson this offseason, and George Pickens has also been involved in plenty of drama. The team hopes Azzanni's leadership will bring stability to the group.
There has been much speculation about the Steelers' wide receiver room this offseason. Many believe the team needs additional help at the position beyond Pickens, leading to the Steelers being linked to numerous wide receiver rumors. Despite efforts to trade for a receiver, they have not yet succeeded. A new report from an NFL insider confirms that the Steelers are still actively seeking to strengthen their receiving corps.
As offseason activities have begun, Azzanni has wasted no time in coaching up his receivers. He spoke to the media, revealing that Calvin Austin III has been particularly impressive.
"He's been outstanding. That's a guy that's gone from here to here in the last eight weeks. It's been really fun to watch. He's a worker, he's intentful, he's urgent. He wants to be coached. You can see it."
Azzanni, using animated gestures, expressed that Austin's game has significantly improved in the short time he has coached him. He believes Steelers fans should be excited about Austin's potential and invest their hopes in his future performance.
"His game has [skyrocketed]. I'm really, really excited for his season if he keeps practicing the way he's been practicing."
The Steelers will need a wide receiver to step up in 2024 to fill the void left by Johnson. Pickens will likely face increased defensive attention, drawing the majority of the secondary coverage. This should create opportunities for the speedier receivers on the roster.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Roman Wilson getting coached during rookie minicamp.
To address their needs, the Steelers brought in Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins, and Scotty Miller this offseason, and they drafted Roman Wilson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. While they have plenty of depth, one of these receivers will need to overachieve.
Steelers' Calvin Austin III Impressing His New WR Coach
Azzanni hinted that Austin might be the sleeper receiver on the roster. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Austin missed his rookie season due to injuries. In 2023, he recorded 17 catches for 180 yards and two touchdowns, along with 29 punt returns for 249 yards. Known for his incredible speed and ideal attitude, Austin has the raw talent and coachability that could lead to a breakout year in 2024 under Azzanni's guidance.
Associated Press
Pittsburgh Steelers' Calvin Austin III breaks away for a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3 of the 2023 season.
With an opportunity up for grabs and his dangerous speed, playing time and chances will be plentiful for Austin. Steelers fans will be eager to see what he can do in this make-or-break year for the young talent. Many pundits have focused on the Steelers' wide receiver room, and while Azzanni has acknowledged the ups and downs, he has noted that Austin has been one of the standout performers.
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