The Pittsburgh Steelers picked up Russell Wilson during the 2024 offseason, giving the former Super Bowl winner a real shot at proving he isn't ready to hang up his cleats. However, the Steelers also benefit from having Wilson on the team. After two frustrating years with Kenny Pickett under center, fans are excited to see if Wilson can breathe new life into a tired offense.

Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Russell Wilson during OTAs.
Wilson has certainly done everything in his power since arriving from the Denver Broncos to prove he wants this very badly. He has been engaging with the city, his teammates, and the fans, attending Pittsburgh Penguins games, throwing out the first pitch for the Pittsburgh Pirates, supporting local charities, and getting out in the community.
On top of that, Wilson looks to be in some of the best shape of his life. At 35, he has been at every voluntary Organized Team Activity (OTA), plus working out with teammates on his own. He has been sharing his journey on social media, including a boxing session. It's not all solo work though, as a new post by fitness coach John Shackleton features Wilson throwing the ball to former teammate and wide receiver, DK Metcalf.
Crazy watching @DangeRussWilson & @dkm14 train this morning! 6 am! Connection Special! @NFL
— John Shackleton (@shack_fit) June 26, 2024
John Ursua is smooth too! #GreatnessIsaHabit #MoonBalls pic.twitter.com/E9vunRvdqa
Metcalf and Wilson spent three seasons together with the Seattle Seahawks and had tremendous chemistry. Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, gave Metcalf, a two-time Pro Bowler, his best season. In 2020, Metcalf had 83 receptions for 1,303 yards and 10 touchdowns. While Metcalf has exceeded 1,000 yards for the two seasons since Wilson left, he hasn't been able to score nearly as many touchdowns.

Andy Bao / The Seattle Times
Former Seattle QB Russell Wilson with teammate DK Metcalf.
The Seahawks chose to trade Wilson to the Broncos in 2022, and most expected it to create shockwaves in the league. The Broncos viewed Wilson as a savior who would come in and restore glory to the team. However, that isn't what happened.
The wide receiver room in Denver was not of the same quality. Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy were not Metcalf, and it showed. Wilson could not succeed with the Broncos, and they were only too happy to pawn him off on the Steelers.
Pittsburgh has been linked to numerous wide receivers this offseason with fans hoping they reel in a big name like Sutton or Brandon Aiyuk. Metcalf's name has actually been circulated through the rumor mill as well. The fact that the two worked out together will surely revive those comments.
Do The Steelers Need A Receiver Like DK Metcalf?
Ever since the Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, there has been a frenzy surrounding who they will sign to replace him. There are also concerns that George Pickens, who is entering his third season, will be able to handle the role of wide receiver one on his own.

Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' George Pickens signals a first down against the Colts in 2023.
There are receivers behind Pickens on the depth chart, like Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins, and the newly drafted Roman Wilson. While Roman Wilson, a third-round draft pick in 2024, might exceed his potential, most analysts think he won't be at the level the Steelers need by Week 1.
Under new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, Pittsburgh is expected to increase its run game and more consistently utilize Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. Tight end Pat Freiermuth may also see more action than he did in 2023. While General Manager Omar Khan has said the team is excited about the receivers on the roster and confident in their abilities, many disagree.
Steelers reporter for The Athletic, Mark Kaboly, has said numerous times that other than Pickens, no receiver is keeping opposing defenses up at night. Even if Pickens has a breakout season, he will need a partner who can pitch in if his impact is being minimized.
What do you think about the acquisition of Russell Wilson and does the team need another standout receiver? Click to comment below.
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