Risky Free Agent Target Tabbed As Weapon The Steelers 'Need To Add' During 2025 Offseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a big postseason clash with the Baltimore Ravens, but a lot of the fan base has already begun thinking about potential offseason moves. The Steelers did not inspire a lot of hope over the last month of the regular season as they are currently riding a four-game losing skid, and it is clear some changes need to be made in order to become more competitive. In particular, the offense has been a problem for Pittsburgh and General Manager Omar Khan should be looking to upgrade the unit.

One of the main positions of contention on Pittsburgh's offense is wide receiver. The organization will need to decide on the future of George Pickens after the 2024 season comes to a close, as the third-year player becomes eligible for an extension. It is also possible that the organization and receiver part ways via trade. Even if Pickens is on the roster in 2025, the Steelers need to add some pieces at wide receiver. 

Bradley Locker of Pro Football Focus tabbed Chris Godwin as a feasible option for Pittsburgh, as he is set to be a free agent after the 2024 season.

"The lack of consistent production in the Steelers' receiving room has finally caught up to Pittsburgh, sinking the team during its four-game slide," Locker wrote. "All season long, only George Pickens has procured a PFF receiving grade north of 74.0. After skimping at the position going into 2024, the Steelers will need to add some big-time weaponry next season. Before suffering a season-ending dislocated ankle, Godwin was on track to be an All-Pro. His 85.7 PFF receiving grade was his best since 2019, plus the third-highest mark in the NFL through seven weeks."

Godwin suffered a season-ending ankle injury during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Week 7 matchup with the Ravens. He dislocated his ankle late in the game, and it was clear almost immediately that he would miss a considerable amount of time. The veteran wide receiver was on pace to have a fantastic season. He had recorded 50 receptions for 576 yards and five touchdowns through just seven games before his injury.

Godwin has been a model of consistency since entering the league in 2017. He has eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark in four out of his eight seasons, and he would have likely done it for a fifth time in 2024 had it not been for his ankle injury. He provides valuable experience as well as a winning mentality. He is one of the better slot receivers in the league, and he was a key factor in Tampa Bay winning Super Bowl LV. 

The veteran's history of winning and overall experience in the league will be an asset for whatever organization pursues him in free agency. He would be an ideal complement to Pickens if he is on the roster in 2025, and he would fit well with a rookie too if the organization decides to part ways with Pickens. Godwin could also be a good mentor to both Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson.

Steelers Would Need To Make A Risky Financial Commitment To Chris Godwin

Godwin will be one of the top wide receivers on the open market during the 2025 offseason. According to Spotrac, his current market value sits at $22.6 million, and the reliable site projects the receiver to sign a three-year deal worth $67.65 million. A deal like this can be seen as risky considering the serious injury Godwin will be bouncing back from. The wide receiver is also 28-years old, and he would need to be a major part of the passing game moving forward if Pittsburgh were to sign him.

Would you want to see Godwin in the black and gold?