Steelers' Pass Catchers Receive Brutal Wake-Up Call

To be fair to Steeler Nation, it's hard to argue that a group featuring Metcalf, Pittman, Bernard, Freiermuth, and Washington deserves a D grade. Regardless of where the rest of the league ranks, that evaluation feels especially harsh. Of course, Sharp's rankings ultimately have no bearing on what actually happens on the field during the 2026 season.

Pittman is also the type of receiver capable of stepping into a No. 1 role when needed, but he's equally comfortable doing the dirty work that often goes unnoticed. In that sense, he shares some similarities with former Steelers legend Hines Ward. While Pittman isn't the all-around player Ward was, he is the kind of receiver who can change games with his physicality, toughness, and reliability. Pairing him with Metcalf gives Pittsburgh a much more balanced and dangerous receiving corps.

Steelers Fixed Biggest Team Issue Heading Into 2026 Season

During the 2025 season, Rodgers was never able to consistently connect with Metcalf the way many expected because opposing defenses focused so much attention on him. At times, Metcalf was Pittsburgh's only legitimate receiving threat, making life much easier for opposing secondaries. That should not be the case in 2026.

With Pittman commanding attention on the opposite side, Bernard adding another weapon, and Freiermuth and Washington providing quality options at tight end, Rodgers should have far more opportunities to attack defenses. That is a major reason many expect the Steelers' offense to take a significant step forward this season. It is also why Sharp's ranking feels off the mark. A C or even B grade would be much easier to justify. A D simply feels too low.