Steelers Linked To Veteran Free Agent Stefon Diggs

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of several teams expected to be searching for help at wide receiver during the 2026 offseason. After acquiring DK Metcalf prior to the 2025 campaign, Pittsburgh still struggled to find consistent production from the rest of its receiving corps throughout the year. While Metcalf delivered strong performances, the lack of reliable secondary options became clear as the season progressed. The Steelers have already been connected to multiple potential additions via the possibilities of free agency and trades, and one intriguing possibility is former All-Pro wideout Stefon Diggs.

Diggs is set to be released by the New England Patriots when free agency officially begins on March 11th, and this comes after a bounce-back season from the 32-year old. Diggs has been one of the most consistent receivers in the league throughout his career, including four straight seasons of 100+ receptions from 2020-2023. 

After an ACL tear ended his 2024 campaign early, Diggs showed he had plenty left in the tank with 85 receptions, 1,1013 yards, and four touchdowns helping lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl. According to Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports, Diggs would fit perfectly in the Steel City as the team's number two target.

"The Steelers are basically in any conversation involving receivers after they unsuccessfully tried to land a proven veteran at the position last season," DeArdo wrote. "In Pittsburgh, Diggs would take some attention off DK Metcalf, who was consistently double-teamed during his first season with the Steelers."

The Steelers jogged out a plethora of veteran pass catchers in 2025 trying to take some attention away from Metcalf, and nothing quite did the trick. All season long it was evident that the offense needed a true number two wideout, and the inability to bring one in before or during the season hurt the team down the stretch. There were moments where Pittsburgh’s passing attack looked explosive, but those flashes didn’t happen consistently enough. 

Adding Diggs would instantly give the Steelers another receiver who demands attention from opposing defenses. His ability to win one-on-one matchups could open up more opportunities not just for Metcalf, but also for Pittsburgh’s tight ends and slot receivers. It would also give the offense a reliable veteran presence in crucial situations.

Even at this stage of his career, Diggs still brings a competitive edge that teams love. He has built a reputation as a player who wants the ball in big moments and isn’t afraid of the spotlight. For a team like Pittsburgh that hopes to compete in the AFC, that type of mentality could be extremely valuable.

Before the injury in 2024, Diggs had already built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable wide receivers. His ability to create separation, run crisp routes, and make tough catches in big moments made him a favorite target for quarterbacks throughout his career. Even as he moved into his late 20s and early 30s, Diggs proved he could still produce at a high level. 

Of course, signing Diggs would also depend on the financial side of things. The Steelers would have to make sure the deal makes sense for both sides, especially with other teams around the league likely showing interest. When a player with Diggs’ resume hits the open market, there are almost always several contenders lining up to make a pitch.

Steelers' Quarterback Situation Could Potentially Turn Diggs Away

As the team waits to hear a decision from Aaron Rodgers, there is a still a massive question mark regarding who will be the team's quarterback in 2026, and that situation alone may steer Diggs away from signing with the Black and Gold. If Rodgers decides not to return to Pittsburgh, the Steelers could head into the season without a clear long-term answer under center. For a veteran receiver like Diggs who is still chasing a championship, the quarterback situation matters a lot. 

Wide receivers often want stability at the position, and uncertainty could make other teams more appealing. If Pittsburgh can solve the quarterback question soon, the team may have a much better chance of convincing Diggs that the Steel City is the right place for him.