Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers' 2022 fourth-round pick could be missing piece to offense

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 1/17/23

The Pittsburgh Steelers had one of the worst offenses in the league this season. With Pittsburgh's offseason under way, the team is searching for answers. But one answer may already be on the roster.

Memphis WR Calvin Austin III was the 138th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. And his teammates, including QB Kenny Pickett, believe he could have a big year in 2023.

Kenny Pickett and Connor Heyward both have said Calvin Austin is going to be the player to watch in 2023. Setting high expectations for him next season. #Steelers #NFL
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) January 16, 2023

Austin III's 2022 season ended before it started after he was placed on injured reserve during training camp and was never activated.

However, the 23-year-old receiver says he'll be fully back in training camp without any restrictions. Austin III added that he plans to train with Pickett and wide receivers Diontae Johnson and George Pickens this offseason.

Calvin Austin will remain in Pittsburgh for another month and work with the training staff. Once done in Pittsburgh he plans to meet with Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and Kenny Pickett to get up to speed. #Steelers #NFL
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) January 16, 2023

The Steelers were the only team in the league to have only three plays longer than 40 yards all year. Their longest touchdown was 31 yards, and 21 of their 28 total touchdowns were less than 10 yards, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Gerry Dulac.

Maybe Austin III will provide some big-play ability next season. Jets CB Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner did name him as one of his toughest matchups in college, saying "He gave me the reality check."

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