Steelers' New WR DK Metcalf Shared The Truth Behind What Russell Wilson Said About Playing In Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Steelers fans were understandably worried about what wide receiver the team would find to partner with George Pickens. The 2024 offseason was an exercise in futility as they were teased with multiple possibilities heading up to the trade deadline, including Brandon Aiyuk and Christian Kirk, only to have none of them come to fruition. Then, when Pickens seemed to go off the rails a bit during the 2024 season, fans got even more nervous; what if they had to trade him? Who would they have left? Just an unproven Roman Wilson to accompany Calvin Austin III?

So it is understandable that they were ecstatic when they managed to work out a trade for Seattle Seahawks standout receiver, DK Metcalf. Even former Steelers Super Bowl winner Ben Roethlisberger joked that he might have to throw on his helmet and return for a year just to play with Metcalf and Pickens. A second-round pick in 2019, Metcalf is a two-time Pro Bowler. 

One factor that immediately came up is that Metcalf's former quarterback is Russell Wilson. The two were partnered together for Metcalf's first three seasons. Rumors flew that Wilson helped bring Metcalf to Pittsburgh or that the trade was a sign that Wilson was definitely returning for the 2025 season. During his introductory press conference, Metcalf was, of course, asked if he sought any advice or feedback from Wilson about what it's like being in Pittsburgh.  

"Last year, I think like halfway through the season, me and Russ had a conversation about how it was living here," said Metcalf. "He just told me that I would love it here, and I'm waiting to find that out."

He did say Wilson had called him the day before to congratulate him on his new team and on his new fiancée. The day before his press conference, he proposed to his girlfriend of three years, Normani. Metcalf told the media that Wilson is responsible for introducing the two of them, so he is very excited to have made such a successful match. 

Metcalf added that he didn't speak with Wilson about his plans for the future, but was enthusiastic about coming to Pittsburgh. He said he has always felt a strong connection and mutual respect for Head Coach Mike Tomlin. Like many players, Metcalf fondly remembers talking with Tomlin during his NFL Combine interviews. He is not only thrilled to play for a coach he respects that much, but also in a city with such a storied franchise.

Steelers Have Some Big Wide Receiver Personalities

If a person's first experience with Metcalf were his introductory press conference, they would never believe the stories about him or the frustrations of Seahawks fans. Metcalf has been a magnet for penalty flags throughout the league. He has also been accused of dropping balls and failing to run the correct routes. This sounds concerning when you consider that he is partnered with Pickens, who also has a reputation for antics. Pickens' antics seemed to increase after Diontae Johnson was traded, rather than decrease, so perhaps the two could strike a balance. If Pickens is able to see the good in this situation, then it might actually prove to be the best thing for his career. 

If not, it will be a lot for Steelers Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni and Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith to handle. When asked about Pickens, Metcalf said that he is excited to share his knowledge with him and, vice versa. He said he has marveled at his freakish plays. Metcalf and Pickens both share a talent for contested catches. 

What do you think Wilson really told Metcalf about Pittsburgh? Tell us what you think below! 

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