The Pittsburgh Steelers were expected to finally have a receiving duo that could do some real damage in 2025.
It was a true struggle in 2024, but the new pairing of DK Metcalf and George Pickens excited the fan base a great deal. Sadly, the team has decided to trade Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys for draft pick compensation.
This puts the organization right back where it started when the 2024 campaign began. The unquestioned top receiver is Metcalf, but there are going to be a number of questions regarding who is going to step up in the offense. If no one does, it will be another long year.
One would have to think that the Steelers have a plan to bring another veteran into the room. The key would be finding one who can make a difference, rather than just being a roster-filler like many believe Robert Woods will be. There are still some options that could lead to a signing or potentially a trade.
There aren't any true difference-making options out on the market currently, but a veteran like Keenan Allen could be the perfect complement to Metcalf. He will understand his role in the offense and knows what it takes to be a team-first player. The Steelers need to avoid any drama with a possible acquisition, and Allen brings that to the table.
He had a very respectable year for the Chicago Bears in 2024, hauling in 70 catches for 744 yards and seven touchdowns in a less-than-impressive offense. He proved that he can still get it done and, more importantly, played in 15 total games. He was relatively healthy and was a solid wideout to have for Chicago. He could be the perfect addition in Pittsburgh.
Despite his age, Amari Cooper could probably still provide some quality depth and talent in the Steelers wide receivers room. He has had a rough couple of years, but does not appear to be on the verge of retirement. Pittsburgh would be an attractive place for him to come and play because he would be guaranteed to get some sort of playing time given the current state of the room.
DK Metcalf
— Parker Abate (@SNParker_) May 7, 2025
CAIII
Roman Wilson
Robert Woods
Ben Skowronek
Scotty Miller
Not sure that group exactly attracts a guy like Aaron Rodgers who would be Super Bowl or bust. Very interesting.
Cooper is only a couple of seasons removed from a phenomenal stretch with the Cleveland Browns. The negative to a potential Cooper signing is that he plays his best football in the slot. Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson might have a little bit of a problem with the competition in that area, as somebody would be out of snaps.
Aaron Rodgers has yet to make a decision on his future, which has caused some problems in Pittsburgh. Something that could seal the deal in regards to him playing for the Steelers could be the acquisition of an old friend. Allen Lazard recently renegotiated his deal with the New York Jets, but he's not a pivotal piece to their offense.
Rodgers is known for wanting to have some familiarity in any huddle he is in, which is why Pittsburgh calling New York to try and inquire about Lazard can't be ruled out. It's even possible that the veteran quarterback decides to ask general manager Omar Khan to try and land Lazard. If he does, Rodgers could officially sign to play for the Steelers.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!