8 free agent receivers the Steelers can sign to replace JuJu

JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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Steelers
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

Steelers could sign Kirk

One of the safest and most obvious slot receiver candidates in this year’s free agency class is Christian Kirk. While he never quite lived up to the hype he had entering the Cardinals receiver room, Kirk has still become a consistent and above-average slot receiver. He isn’t going to come in and put-up elite numbers (he never did that in Arizona), but his sharp route running and deceptive speed can be a huge help in this offense.

What makes Kirk so appealing is that he is a natural slot receiver. He does his best work making tough catches, attacking the middle of the field, and making some plays with the ball in his hands. While Smith-Schuster was fine in that role, the team tried using him like he was going to break big plays off short passes. He wasn’t fit for that, but Kirk is better there.

While not a dynamic receiver, Kirk will certainly be a sought-after name for any team in need of a slot receiver. If the Steelers wanted to pony up some extra money for him, it could be well worth it. Kirk is a stereotypical slot receiver and would be a good addition to this roster. While not an elite player, he would bring a new element to this passing game.