Talk is cheap. Unfortunately, neither is DK Metcalf. A $132 million contract extension projected productivity. Instead, it’s led to letdowns, including a virtually absent performance during a 34-22 Pittsburgh Steelers win.
“I don’t worry about what a DB does well. They have to guard me,” Metcalf told reporters ahead of his matchup with Sauce Gardner. His words were bold but yielded no action. Lou Anarumo’s defense held Mike McCarthy’s WR1 to three receptions on four targets for 12 receiving yards.
Luckily, Aaron Rodgers found other targets. But Metcalf’s absence is hard to ignore.
Truthfully, it’s jarring. This season, the former second-round pick (2019) has 225 receiving yards and one touchdown. His production is similar to Jaylin Noel (227) and Romeo Doubs (219). Respectfully, they are not supposed to be on pace with Pittsburgh’s lead receiver.
Metcalf’s response to his preparation for Week 5 didn’t age well. Neither has Pittsburgh’s million-dollar investment. And if he doesn’t turn things around, could he be considered the biggest contract mistake in recent franchise history?
DK Metcalf must remind fans why the Pittsburgh Steelers offered him a healthy extension
Sure, but I do not think it will get that far. Yes, Metcalf bit off more than he could chew. But it’s nice to see his confidence growing after a disastrous start to the campaign. In Week 4, he earned five receptions and 115 yards against the Cleveland Browns.
The veteran is looking for another breakout game. And McCarthy’s offense would love for him to play his role. Jaylen Warren currently leads all Steelers in receiving (230). That’s by necessity, not design. Metcalf trails by five yards (225), but to whom more is given, more is required.
The receiving corps showed they can carry the workload while Metcalf finds his stride. Thankfully, Germie Bernard is earning Rodgers’ trust. It shows on the gridiron. On Sunday, the rookie earned 80 yards receiving on six receptions. He helped move the sticks and spread the field when the primary target wasn’t available.
It’s nice to see multiple pieces contributing to hard-earned victories. But victory would be sweeter if X-Factors performed as expected. Fans understand that cold streaks happen. They are a part of competing. But they do not last forever.
DK Metcalf is prone to mistakes, but I expect him to become a frequent contributor as the season progresses. Especially if he wants to chirp at opponents before facing off on Sunday afternoons.
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