4 Steelers receivers on the hot seat with the addition of Allen Robinson

Steelers could cut Gunner Olszewski

Gunner was the free agent signed by the Steelers in 2022 when the New England Patriots cut him. While a wide receiver, he was the main kick returner for the Patriots. After he was cut, the Steelers quickly swooped in and signed him to a two-year deal. He had a decent preseason, and it appeared he might have a decent season.

Well, that was only a mirage in the desert. He only started two games as a punt returner. After only eight punt returns and three kick returns for a total of 101 yards and two fumbles, he was replaced. The Steelers benched him in favor of Steve Sims, who did add some excitement and nearly broke one for a touchdown. In fact, Sims holds the record for the longest kick return to not go for a touchdown.

After benching him, they did use him sporadically in the passing game though only to the tune of seven targets for five receptions for a total of 53 yards. He also had eight rushing attempts for 39 yards; thus, for the most part, as a receiver, he was a non-factor in most Steelers games.  

If any of the receivers is clearly on the hot seat, it would have to be Gunner. Surprisingly, they did not cut him before free agency to make salary cap space. They decided to keep him for at least one more season at least. In the preseason, he will have much to prove if he wants to make the 53-man roster this fall.