The 2026 NFL Draft is officially in the books. But that does not mean Omar Khan’s front office is finished improving the roster. On Monday, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed wide receiver Brandon Johnson, who is now on his third stint with the team. It is a quiet move aimed at adding depth to an offense still searching for real growth.
I do not believe this signing suddenly takes Mike McCarthy’s offense from good to great. But it does reflect a continued commitment to development, and that matters.
Johnson’s story mirrors that mindset.
The former undrafted free agent entered the league after a breakout season at the University of Central Florida. He quickly carved out opportunities, appearing in 20 games with the Denver Broncos. During that stretch, he recorded 25 receptions for 326 receiving yards and found ways to stay involved in the offense.
His NFL journey did not stop there. In 2024, Johnson joined the Steelers on the practice squad. Through determination and steady work, he earned a promotion to the 53-man roster. He made three appearances and recorded one reception for nine yards.
It was not eye-popping production, but showed his ability to stick and continue climbing.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are determined to improve the offense before the 2026 season
Since then, Johnson has settled into a rotational role on the practice squad. His availability is tied to weekly performance, and that keeps the pressure on. Fortunately, he brings a clear hunger to improve. Still, it is hard to envision a scenario where the 26-year-old becomes a major contributor unless circumstances shift significantly.
Why? Because Omar Khan’s offseason investments must hold priority over the franchise’s recent re-signing.
Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard are expected to handle meaningful roles in a developing offense. DK Metcalf stands as the centerpiece of the wide receiver room, and Roman Wilson remains a viable option when healthy. With Johnson in the mix, McCarthy has no shortage of bodies to work with.
Depth matters over the course of a long season. Injuries happen, roles change, and opportunities appear when least expected. Johnson understands that reality better than most, and his path in the league reflects it.
I am interested to see how Brandon Johnson develops as he continues to fight for reps this season. It is not a headline-grabbing move, but it is another step in building competition within the roster. And competition is exactly what this offense needs as it tries to find consistency.
I am rooting for Johnson to carve out a role, even if it starts small. His journey fits the tone of what Pittsburgh is trying to build right now. A group that works, competes, and gradually grows into something more explosive.
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