The Pittsburgh Steelers have made one thing clear throughout the 2025 offseason: they are all-in on reshaping the franchise.
General Manager Omar Khan and his front office have worked tirelessly to add elite talent, with major acquisitions including quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver DK Metcalf, and defensive backs Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay.
The splash moves were headline-grabbers, signaling Pittsburgh’s intent to chase a Super Bowl in Rodgers’ likely final years.
Now, with the NFL’s roster cut deadline in the rearview mirror, the Steelers’ focus shifts to addressing the smaller — but still critical — holes. One such area: wide receiver depth.
With limited experienced talent behind Metcalf, Pittsburgh is searching for low-cost, high-upside veterans who could round out the rotation. Unfortunately, the post-cuts market is thin. Still, a few names stand out — not as home runs, but as potential value pickups.
These recently released WRs could give the Pittsburgh Steelers a boost in 2025
Michael Gallup: An expereinced target
Once a key contributor for the Dallas Cowboys, Michael Gallup finds himself on the open market after being cut by the Washington Commanders. Gallup, now entering his seventh season, is far from the dynamic threat he once was, but he remains a steady, physical receiver who can win contested catches and move the chains.
In 2024, Gallup hauled in 7.3 yards per reception — modest, but serviceable.
With 3,744 career receiving yards and 21 touchdowns, Gallup has the resume to be a reliable WR3 or WR4 option, especially for a team looking to bolster its red zone and third-down efficiency
. For Pittsburgh, Gallup could provide a physical presence that complements Metcalf and Pickens while giving Aaron Rodgers another trustworthy veteran.
Hunter Renfrow: A capable but doubted WR2
Route-running specialists are becoming increasingly rare in today’s NFL, but Hunter Renfrow continues to show why that skill set still matters.
The sixth-year veteran made a name for himself with the Raiders thanks to his sharp routes, shiftiness, and football IQ — traits that helped him consistently beat defensive backs. His breakout season in 2021 saw him rack up 1,038 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the league’s most dependable targets.
Unfortunately, injuries have slowed his career since then. After a brief and uneventful stint with the Carolina Panthers, Renfrow didn’t see the field at all in 2024. Still, his recent release could be an opportunity — especially for a team like the Steelers that needs wide receiver depth.
Renfrow may not be flashy, but he’s reliable. With the right role and a fresh start, I believe he can still contribute. He just needs a chance.
Mecole Hardman: A speedster to stretch the field
If speed is the priority for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, then Mecole Hardman is worth a hard look. Released by the Green Bay Packers after an underwhelming season, Hardman still carries the label of a speedster from his days with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs.
Hardman’s 2024 campaign was quiet, and his role diminished, but the raw speed remains.
Pairing him with Calvin Austin III might seem redundant, but depth at the speed receiver role can’t hurt — especially with the injuries and fatigue that mount throughout a season. If Pittsburgh can carve out a niche role for Hardman, possibly on jet sweeps or as a vertical threat, his impact could outweigh his price.
Laviska Shenault Jr.: A multi-layered investment
Versatility is the name of the game with Laviska Shenault Jr. Recently released by the Buffalo Bills, Shenault has experience as a receiver, gadget player, and return specialist. His career numbers — 1,587 receiving yards and six touchdowns — don’t jump off the page, but his multifaceted skill set makes him an intriguing depth piece.
With Calvin Austin III currently tasked with both receiving and return duties, Shenault could ease that burden and add value in multiple areas. His physical running style and ability to line up in the backfield or the slot make him a chess piece Arthur Smith could utilize creatively.
In an ideal world, Pittsburgh wouldn’t be shopping from the clearance rack. But with few WRs available post-cuts, they must take what they can get. These veterans aren't saviors — but one of them might just be the missing piece to complete the Steelers' revamped roster.