3 fantastic wide receiver fits Steelers could target in the 2025 NFL Draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers must urgently improve their offense, and one of the most glaring gaps remains at wide receiver. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, they are in a unique position with the 21st overall pick, which offers an opportunity to select a promising wide receiver who can make an immediate impact.

Adding a talented, dynamic wideout would help stretch the field and give the starting quarterback—whoever it may be—another viable option in the aerial attack. More importantly, it would allow George Pickens to fully blossom as the primary receiver, making the Steelers’ offense far more dangerous.

In the long term, a well-chosen draft pick could provide years of value while allowing Pittsburgh to allocate resources to other areas of need.

Emeka Egbuka is the ideal choice for the Steelers

The 21st overall pick places the Steelers in a challenging position. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and New York Jets seek offensive help and pick ahead of Pittsburgh, making it unlikely that the Steelers will land one of the draft’s most coveted wideouts. But all is not lost. There will still be several promising wide receiver prospects available who could help the Steelers significantly improve their passing game.

One such prospect is Emeka Egbuka, a former Ohio State Buckeye. He is widely regarded as one of the top five wide receivers in the draft class. Standing at 6’1” and projected to run a 4.42 40-yard dash, Egbuka possesses the physical traits that NFL scouts drool over. He has the speed to burn defenders deep, and his 83 catches for 1,607 yards and 25 touchdowns as a senior demonstrate his ability to make plays at a high level.

Egbuka’s route-running skills are just as impressive, as he can quickly gain separation and avoid tight coverage — a crucial skill for a rookie receiver entering the NFL. Egbuka’s maturity and experience at Ohio State could make him an immediate contributor to the Steelers’ offense if he’s available at 21.

Matthew Golden is a realistic alternative selection for Steelers in Round 1

If Egbuka is off the board by the time the Steelers make their selection, they are still in a good position to land another elite prospect in Matthew Golden. Golden, like Egbuka, stands at six feet tall and runs a sub-4 second 40-yard dash, showcasing elite speed and agility.

Golden’s ability to track the football and adjust his body to make difficult catches reminds many of George Pickens, who has already established himself as one of the Steelers’ most promising young talents.

Golden’s clutch performances and desire to have the ball in critical moments would make him a perfect complement to Pickens. He has the tools to be an immediate playmaker for the Steelers’ offense.

Jalen Royals would give the Steelers what they're looking for

The last wideout who should be on the Steelers’ radar is Jalen Royals, a standout from Utah State University. Royals is known for his sure hands and big-play ability, which helped him earn First-Team All-Mountain West honors in 2024. He has the physical tools to be a dangerous weapon in Pittsburgh’s offense, averaging 15.2 yards per catch last season.

Royals is a pure outside receiver who can stretch the field and create opportunities for other players, making him a valuable addition to the Steelers receiving corps. With his ability to make contested catches and stretch the defense, Royals could be a valuable asset for Pittsburgh’s offense.

As the Steelers evaluate their decision to improve the wide receiver position, they must be cautious yet decisive. Known for making cost-effective decisions, Pittsburgh is in a good position to invest wisely in the 2025 NFL Draft.

With the 21st pick, Pittsburgh could secure a wide receiver who can help elevate the offense, providing an immediate impact while growing into a long-term asset. Whoever they choose, this rookie must be mature enough to contribute early in his career, help the offense expand, and embrace the Steelers’ storied culture.

Selecting the right wide receiver could be the key to unlocking Pittsburgh’s offensive potential and setting the foundation for future success.