Offensive inconsistency has become the Pittsburgh Steelers' middle name. An aggressive offseason allowed Omar Khan to add additional pieces to a questionable roster. Sure, the transactions created immense anticipation for a successful campaign. But fans haven’t witnessed lasting results.
The decision to trade for Michael Pittman Jr. stood out more than other acquisitions. But as the campaign continues, the deal seems more like a mistake. Pittsburgh’s front office signed the wideout to a two-year, $35 million extension after acquiring him in exchange for a Day 3 pick swap.
But they haven't received a return on investment.
How could that be? Before joining Mike McCarthy’s staff, the former second-round pick was revered as a rising star. A six-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts showcased his reliability and willingness to stretch the field. Last season, Pittman caught 80 receptions on 111 targets for 784 receiving yards. He also set his career high in touchdowns (7).
Well, things look a little different this year. Since joining Pittsburgh, his style hasn’t been the same. And it’s hard to ignore on the stat sheet. Entering Week 5, Pittman has accounted for seven receptions on 12 targets for 89 receiving yards and zero touchdowns. He’s also managed only 31 receiving yards over his last two appearances combined.
The numbers tell the full story when compared to receivers across the league. Players like Dyami Brown (86), Chris Bell (92), and Darnell Mooney (95) all have outgained Pittsburgh’s second option. It shows Pittman is producing at a level comparable to receivers with limited roles, not starting wideouts. It’s a considerable drop-off from where the stud finished last season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are not getting a fair return on their Michael Pittman Jr. investment
Pittman has already missed one game this season. A lingering left foot injury continues to haunt the veteran. It forced him to miss action during Week 2 against the New England Patriots. It will also cause him to miss a revenge game against his former team on Sunday afternoon.
According to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, Pittman was seen using a scooter in the locker room. He stretched with the team and was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. On Thursday, McCarthy broke the news that the veteran could be out for multiple weeks, per TribLIVE's Chris Adamski.
Additional recovery may cost Pittsburgh in multiple ways. Sure, allowing Pittman Jr. time to rest properly has long-term benefits. Maybe he’ll return to full force before the season’s end. But truthfully, Pittsburgh has limited time to spare.
McCarthy’s offense has yet to show full potential. And a loss to the Cleveland Browns dropped Pittsburgh's unit to third in AFC North rankings. The Steelers are already behind schedule. Now, they must wait for Pittman to regain health and become comfortable in the system.
But how long will that take?
At this rate, Pittman is on track to finish the season with 35 receptions, 430 receiving yards, and two touchdowns. If Aaron Rodgers doesn’t increase his involvement in Mike McCarthy’s passing offense, reaching 500 yards could be difficult. That’s not enough to help the Steelers reach the postseason and snap their winless playoff drought.
It’s clear Pittman is currently trending toward a disappointing statistical season. If his left foot injury continues to linger, things could only become worse. Hopefully, the veteran makes a speedy recovery and fulfills his intended role on Pittsburgh’s roster.
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