The Pittsburgh Steelers are pursuing wide receivers in free agency and through the 2026 NFL Draft to provide support to their star, DK Metcalf. The Steelers have been linked to most wide receiver free agents this offseason, and it will be interesting to see who they go with. There are a plethora of veteran receivers looking to continue their careers with a change of scenery. Some guys are just coming off of rookie deals too. The Steelers will have to make a big choice on whether or not they want a short-term solution in an established veteran, or give a longer contract to one of the younger receivers who are available.
Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press
Former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill warming up on the field before an NFL game in 2022.
The Miami Dolphins have just recently released their star receiver, Tyreek Hill, after he underwent a massive surgery that reconstructed ligaments in his knee. Hill was a huge cap casualty for the team, and they looked to move on from his contract. Hill has been linked to Pittsburgh, but it's uncertain whether or not he will be his normal self post-surgery. Another concern is that he may not be ready for the start of the 2026 season.
Another established veteran receiver who is testing the market is Mike Evans. Evans is coming off a slow season where he spent most of it hurt. Evans has been one of the most reliable weapons since he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, he could be an effective weapon if he stays healthy. The Steelers checking in on these seasoned receivers is likely, but it may be wise to go with a younger free agent receiver instead.
Steelers reporter Christopher Carter believes the team should make the right choice soon.
"If you go out and get a guy like Mike Evans or Tyreek Hill, there’s this year, but they’re gone the next. Then that shakes the room again," Carter said. "I think this is the time to build up that room for the future so it’s stable for when a new QB walks in."
A big concern for the future is the receiver room, with Metcalf and Roman Wilson being the only experienced receivers on the roster.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson flexes his muscles after a big-time play on Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers in 2025.
The team needs to bring talent in through the draft and free agency. Some younger guys the Steelers could sign in free agency include guys like Alec Pierce or Jalen Nailor.
The Steelers Need To Get Younger And Consistent In The Receiver Room
The Steelers had major issues with their receiving corps last year, as their star, Metcalf, did not have much help. In Metcalf's absence during his two-game suspension, it was apparent that the Steelers relied on Metcalf for the majority of their offense in the passing game. The team struggled mightily through the air without their star, as there was no clear-cut receiver who could replicate Metcalf's production. This offseason, the Steelers need to ensure they surround their star with more talent. This will not only help their offense as a whole, but also take the load off Metcalf and give more weapons to whoever quarterbacks the team.
Carlos Gonzalez / The Minnesota Star Tribune
Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor during a regular-season game in the 2025 season
Thankfully, this offseason has proven to be a treasure trove for the Steelers, as many talented, young receivers are available in free agency. Pierce and Nailor are both coming off productive seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and Minnesota Vikings respectively. Pierce logged his first 1,000-yard season and is a big name in this year's free agency class. While he could demand some money, the Steelers would be wise to invest in such a talented receiver, as he is just entering his prime. Pierce was the number two guy in Indianapolis behind Michael Pittman Jr., however played like a number one at times and was a huge deep ball threat.
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