5 Steelers X-Factors in week 1 against the New England Patriots

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PITTSBURGH, PA – AUGUST 17: Herb Miller #34 of the Kansas City Chiefs strips the ball from Donte Moncrief #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half during a preseason game at Heinz Field on August 17, 2019, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

Donte Moncrief

The Steelers are looking for that player to line up across from JuJu Smith-Schuster this year. Pittsburgh didn’t give Moncrief a two-year, $9 million deal if they didn’t think he could be a factor for them.

However, Moncrief has been getting lost in the shuffle and players like James Washington, and Diontae Johnson has been much more talked about this offseason. Still, Moncrief will open the season as the starter opposite JuJu for the Steelers.

Moncrief had a very disappointing preseason – catching just 3 balls for 12 yards (4.0 yards per catch). He also lost a fumble.

Next. Steelers vs. Patriots: Predicting the outcome of the game. dark

Despite a rough start, the Steelers need him to come out firing on all cylinders. Moncrief has proven to be a capable option over the years, but the veteran wide receiver will be on a short leash with Washington and Johnson nipping at his heels. Let’s hope he picks up the pace against the Patriots.