The NFL is highly competitive. So it’s never too late for front offices to creatively enhance rosters. Especially if you’re the Pittsburgh Steelers. Anticipation for Mike McCarthy’s first season as head coach continues to keep fans optimistic. We expect a bright future, but roster holes are still a concern heading into the final stretch of the offseason.
It would not surprise me if general manager Omar Khan took one final attempt to modify the depth chart. And there are a few veteran wide receivers worth considering.
Here are a few free agent veterans I’d keep an eye on as we find ourselves closer to the regular season’s kickoff.
3 receivers still on the market that could help the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026
Keenan Allen may have another season or two in the tank
There’s a comfort associated with consistent professionals. Keenan Allen fits the definition perfectly. The former third-round pick built a career squarely on production and longevity. And the results are hard to ignore. Since 2013, Allen has earned six Pro Bowl nominations. His creative route running and dependable hands make him an easy target for developing quarterbacks. Or even an aging Aaron Rodgers.
Acquiring a seasoned veteran comes with calculated risks. At 34 years old, Allen is not the athlete he once was. But his experience has helped him stay in front of Father Time. Last season, the skilled wideout ranked 16th in receptions (81) and accumulated 777 receiving yards. He also played in all 17 games - showcasing tremendous durability in the final stretch of his career.
Another bigger target for Aaron Rodgers to target is not a bad thing. Pittsburgh already has one of the tallest WR depth charts in the NFL. The size mismatches would keep defenses on their toes. It could even allow McCarthy to incorporate a physical run-first offense - with a dash of Rodgers magic.
Tyreek Hill would add serious juice...if he can get healthy
Few things are more valuable than speed. For years, Tyreek Hill provided this resource at a high level. He’s notorious for being one of the NFL’s most explosive receivers - using acceleration, burst, and elusiveness to transform simple routes into highlights. And the accolades speak for themselves. Since 2015, Hill has earned five first-team All-Pro nods and eight Pro Bowl selections. It’s hard to overlook such a distinguished career even if “the cheetah’s” recent campaigns do not reflect his previous successes.
I can already imagine how successful Aaron Rodgers could become if Pittsburgh were to roster a talent like Hill. He’s a mismatch for slot defenders and has enough experience to outmaneuver polished cornerbacks. In 2023, Hill earned 119 receptions, 1,799 yards and 13 touchdowns. Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard are expected to become third options in McCarthy’s scheme. If Hill can give the green light, why not add the speedster to the room?
Recently, health concerns are a red flag for anyone looking to invest in the former Super Bowl champion. Last season, Hill tore his ACL, MCL, and PCL, requiring reconstructive knee surgery. It’s a tremendous blow for a speedster with limited size, but maybe this is only a minor pitfall during a decorated career. I still believe Tyreek Hill is an X-Factor when on the field. Hopefully he becomes an inexpensive target for the developing offense if all cards are played right.
Stefon Diggs can clearly still play, but can he keep himself on the straight an narrow?
Wideouts with off-field issues seem to find their way to Pittsburgh. The shoe would fit if Stefon Diggs became the newest member of the locker room. At first, the partnership may sound like a head-scratching move. Didn’t Pittsburgh ship George Pickens away due to behavior issues? Some fans may believe a stab at the seasoned X-factor is a significant reach. But I believe for the right price, the former Patriot can become exactly what McCarthy needs.
Experience is an intangible asset, and Diggs has more than enough to be considered valuable. He’s spent time in multiple offenses throughout his career, helping the franchise rebuild philosophies step by step. Just take a look at last season. In 2025, Diggs led New England’s receiving core with 85 receptions and 1,013 receiving yards. His 11.9 yards per reception helped Drake Maye keep the chains moving.
Without Diggs, it's hard to say the season plays out the same - even if he brings his fair share of headaches. The contributions also propelled Mike Vrabel’s unit to a Super Bowl LIX appearance. Imagine if the Steelers received his assistance? Sure, DK Metcalf is the primary wideout - but adding another capable target would not hurt. Michael Pittman Jr. and Diggs would force secondaries to make acute adjustments.
Acquiring another veteran wideout could seem nauseating for Pittsburgh fans. Especially when the front office has made investing in players at the tail end of their careers a habit recently. But signing a free agent wide receiver is the cheapest way to secure insurance at the skilled position. Plus, Stefon Diggs, Tyreek Hill, and Keenan Allen are different than the impromptu decisions of the past.
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