Steelers Could Be Final Piece Of Domino Effect That Lands Former First-Round Wide Receiver In Pittsburgh

Much of the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 offseason has revolved around the wide receivers' room. Anyone following the team understands that George Pickens is expected to be the top pass-catcher on the field, but it seems as if there are several borderline wide receiver threes (WR3) behind him. The most notable players are Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III and currently injured rookie Roman Wilson. As each day passes, it becomes increasingly more likely that a star like Brandon Aiyuk will not be joining the organization, leaving many wondering what General Manager Omar Khan's plan is to improve the room in order to free up Pickens.

Contemplating a trade for another wideout that would fall under the third or fourth spot on most depth charts is still on the table, with John Metchie III leading the way as an intriguing candidate. The Steelers could also wait to see which wide receivers throughout the league end up getting released. A fascinating name was brought up on X on Monday, and he could be someone to keep an eye on in the coming days.

Kadarius Toney has not found his footing in the NFL since being drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. JuJu Smith-Schuster reportedly signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday, which likely marks the end of Toney's time with the back-to-back Super Bowl champions. Taking a flyer on him wouldn't inspire excitement in the Steel City, but it might make sense to try and find that first-round talent that he could still have in him.

Toney only has 82 career receptions for 760 yards and three touchdowns. He has been utilized a bit in the running game, but overall, is certainly labeled as a bust. The Steelers signing him, if he ends up being released by Kansas City, would be the definition of low-risk move. There's no guarantee he will stand out in any way, but Pittsburgh currently isn't very impressive in the room altogether.

Toney was absolutely phenomenal during his senior season with the Florida Gators. He hauled in 70 catches for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns while also rushing for one score as well. The strong campaign led to him being tabbed as a first-rounder, but he has done nothing but disappoint since. There could be a spot for him in the Steelers' offense, but more so as a depth piece with first-round pedigree.

Barring a significant trade like one for Aiyuk, or a more low-key acquisition like that of Metchie, Pittsburgh will probably be active once certain players are released from their current teams. Smith-Schuster's reunion with the Chiefs almost certainly solidifies Toney's fate and he, quite literally, could be a free agent any hour now. It will be interesting to see if the Steelers show any interest. Not because he is that much better than anyone in the locker room now, but because of his high ceiling.

Steelers Did Not Inspire Too Much Confidence During 2024 Preseason

Pittsburgh had a rough exhibition stretch with three loses in a row. The first-team offense didn't do much of anything until the third contest, but there are still concerns overall. It also hurts that an injury to Wilson has hindered his preparation in his rookie season. The organization could be one wide receiver away from be a legitimate threat, and while that individual may not be Toney, he could be a last resort option if nothing else falls into place.

Do you think that the Steelers should look into Toney if he is released by the Chiefs? Let us know in the comments below!

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