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Steelers' decision not to trade for another wide receiver will hinge on the belief that young weapon can have a breakout season
Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

There is still a lot of talk that the Pittsburgh Steelers may add to their WR corps. 

That was only reignited by yesterday's news surrounding a certain San Francisco 49ers WR. 

However, if the Steelers remain content, it will be due to one player and his ability to take a significant step in 2025...

Calvin Austin III has to be the Steelers' breakout player in 2025

Calvin Austin III is headed to year four with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but in reality, it's year three after he missed the entirety of his rookie season. Year three is where you want players to take their jump. To realize their potential and let you know if they can be a part of your long-term plan. 

And for Austin, his 2024 season was a step towards what has to be his breakout year. He showed the blistering speed that was evidenced in his pre-draft process, a toughness to go over the middle, and a willingness to do the dirty work as a blocker. 

"I mean, you know, it's funny everyone, I think, to your point, everyone overlooks number 19 [Calvin Austin III]," Steelers WR coach Zach Azzanni told Mark Kaboly of The Pat McAfee Show during mandatory minicamp. Guy [is] a legit NFL receiver. I know he's like, this big, [but he] just gets separation all over the field, and bites your face off in the run game. Nothing affects him. He's a great leader, so he can do a lot of things."

There is reason to believe that Calvin Austin III will take the next step in year two of Arthur Smith's offense, with a more stable quarterback situation, and with a bona fide superstar opposite him via DK Metcalf

But he also has to. If the Steelers get through camp and things dont look great, or even if they do and the first half of the regular season isn't what they expect, you can bet Omar Khan will do his due diligence and explore the trade market.  

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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