Steelers suddenly have new WR option to replace George Pickens

Replacing the talent the Steelers lost in Pickens won’t be easy. While signing a veteran like Davis won’t fill that gap, it could help bolster the receiving corps. The Steelers’ wide receiver room now features Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, and Roman Wilson as key players to watch in 2025. Besides those three, Robert Woods is a new addition, and Ben Skowronek is back in the mix. However, like in 2024, the wide receiver group doesn’t inspire much confidence.

Adding Davis could improve the depth of the position, but it likely wouldn’t drastically change the outlook for the receiving room. Davis had a down 2024 season, playing in 10 games with just 20 receptions on 42 targets, 239 yards, and two touchdowns. However, his previous four seasons with the Buffalo Bills were much more productive, offering a glimpse of his potential to contribute in Pittsburgh.

The Steelers may hope that a player like Davis can help solidify their wide receiver room following the Pickens trade. While they need a game-changer, finding that caliber of talent won’t be easy. Other older wide receivers, like Amari Cooper and Keenan Allen, remain available in free agency, but the Steelers have not made an effort to get them. That may change now that Pickens has been traded.

The Steelers' decision to part ways with Pickens leaves a significant void in their offense, particularly in the wide receiver room. While adding Davis could help, it’s clear that this move alone won’t solve the team’s offensive struggles. The Steelers need a playmaker who can consistently create separation, generate explosive plays, and be a reliable option in critical moments. Davis has shown flashes of that potential, but his inconsistency raises questions about whether he can step up in Pittsburgh's high-pressure environment.

Steelers move forward following George Pickens trade 

Beyond Davis, the Steelers could explore other avenues to bolster their receiving group, such as a trade or acquisition from another team. The wide receiver market is becoming more competitive, and the Steelers must remain strategic, weighing cost versus impact. While committed to building around Metcalf, Austin, and Wilson, adding another reliable target could help unlock their offense's potential.

As the Steelers move forward, they must also focus on their broader offensive strategy. With heavy investment in the running game and offensive line, a strong receiving corps will be key to keeping defenses honest and giving quarterbacks more options. The offense could become more balanced and stable if they find a complementary wide receiver.