With all the noise surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, it’s easy to overlook the subtle moves that carry just as much meaning.
Yes, the Steelers traded for DK Metcalf, signed future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, added Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith, and capped it all off with a record-breaking three-year, $123 million extension for T.J. Watt.
The roster overhaul has been bold, aggressive, and unapologetic.
But quietly, amid this chaos, Omar Khan and the front office made another bold statement—one that didn’t involve a press conference or blockbuster trade.
They chose not to make a splash at wide receiver beyond Metcalf, signaling a strong belief in the development of third-year wideout Calvin Austin III.
To me, that silence speaks volumes.
With training camp less than two weeks away, and George Pickens no longer on the roster, the WR2 role is wide open. And as the depth chart stands, Austin III is my favorite to step into that role.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are putting tremendous trust in Calvin Austin III
It’s a huge opportunity—and a big responsibility—for a young receiver who’s been waiting for his breakout.
In 2024, Austin took a major leap, finishing the season with 36 catches, 548 receiving yards, and four touchdowns. Those numbers may not scream “star,” but compared to his rookie season, it was a huge step forward.
His speed, agility, and growing chemistry with the offense didn’t go unnoticed. Now, with Arthur Smith’s offense expanding, I expect the scheme to open even more chances for Austin to shine.
Yes, the Steelers could still explore adding another wideout, but I doubt it’ll be someone brought in to take Austin’s spot. This feels like his role to lose. The trust the front office has shown by not making another move tells me they believe Austin is ready for a bigger role—and frankly, I believe it too.
This is the kind of quiet confidence that builds stars. While the headlines have been dominated by Metcalf, Rodgers, and Watt, Austin is preparing to make his own noise this season.
I expect him to rise to the occasion and surprise people. In a year where the Steelers have made every bold move imaginable, trusting Calvin Austin III might be one of their smartest.