The Pittsburgh Steelers added nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson to their roster this offseason on a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. Wilson, who made a name for himself as an elite NFL quarterback with the Seattle Seahawks, was traded to the Denver Broncos and signed a hefty five-year, $242 million contract. After just two seasons with the Broncos however, the team moved on from Wilson, paying a significant sum to release him. Now, Wilson joins the Steelers with hopes of reviving his once-stellar NFL career.
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers Diontae Johnson (18) and George Pickens (14) celebrate after a score in Miami, FL.
This offseason has also seen significant changes in the Steelers' wide receiver room. Pittsburgh traded away star wide receiver Diontae Johnson, placing greater pressure on George Pickens to deliver an All-Pro caliber season and lead the offense. Many pundits believe the Steelers need additional support and a true wide receiver two, leaving fans curious about who will start alongside Pickens.
Chris Adamski recently spoke with Wilson, and according to Adamski's social media, Wilson may have inadvertently revealed who he views as the team's second wide receiver.
Asked about the Steelers WR corps, the second name Russell Wilson mentions (after George Pickens) is Calvin Austin III
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) July 24, 2024
Wilson has lavished high praise on Calvin Austin III this offseason, a sentiment echoed by others within the Steelers organization. Despite the optimism, the team hasn’t had ample opportunity to fully assess Austin due to injuries that hampered his 2022 season and a less-than-ideal offensive scheme for the 2023 season.
Associated Press
Steelers' Calvin Austin III breaks away for a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3 of the 2023 season.
Austin, drafted by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, had a modest statistical output in his first year of game action, with 17 receptions for 180 yards and one touchdown. Additionally, his speed allowed him to contribute on the ground with 11 carries for 57 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Although it wasn’t a standout season, Austin is poised to make a significant leap in 2024.
The Steelers have been linked to several high-profile wide receivers this offseason, sparking speculation that they might pursue a trade to bolster their receiving corps. However, as of now, Pittsburgh has not finalized any major acquisitions in that regard.
Instead, the team has added a number of speedy wide receivers, including Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins, and Scotty Miller. They also drafted Roman Wilson, who is anticipated to play a crucial role as a rookie. Additionally, tight end Pat Freiermuth is expected to have an expanded role in the offense under new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith.
Steelers' Calvin Austin III Turning Heads In Pittsburgh
With a plethora of options, but no clear second wide receiver behind Pickens, Austin has a genuine opportunity to gain momentum and make a name for himself in Pittsburgh. Wilson’s admiration for Austin’s speed and his eagerness to connect with him on the field is significant, especially given that Wilson mentions Austin as a key player right after Pickens.
Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Calvin Austin III (#19) returns a punt against the Buffalo Bills.
Although it’s unlikely that Austin will start the season as the second wide receiver on the depth chart, there’s a possibility that, with more time to work with Wilson and adapt to the new offensive system, he could exceed expectations and make a substantial impact in 2024. While concerns about the wide receiver position persist among fans, Wilson’s excitement about having Austin on the team offers a glimpse of optimism for the upcoming season.
#SteelerNation
