5 players who could reunite with Arthur Smith on the Steelers in 2024

Steelers could sign Van Jefferson

Of all of the names on this list, Van Jefferson has the least amount of experience with Smith as a coach. He joined the Falcons during the middle of the season via a trade, and while he never found his footing, he has had success in the past as a talented receiver.

Jefferson was actually a previous draft target for the Steelers. While the 2020 pre-draft process was shortened by Covid, Pittsburgh had met with Jefferson before in-person visits were canceled. The interest in a receiver was real, as the team ultimately took Chase Claypool with their first pick.

Jefferson looked like a player on the rise with the Rams in his second season, but inconsistencies and a crowded room caused him to slip down the depth chart. He was phased out of the offense enough to warrant getting traded this season. The Falcons didn’t use him a lot, but the talent is still there, and the Steelers have a need.

While Pittsburgh’s top receivers are talented, there is a depth issue and the slot position is lacking. Jefferson can wear a lot of hats for this offense though. While not a notable slot receiver, he has played there in the past. If the team finds someone else there, Jefferson can serve as a reserve on the outside. The versatility and likely cheap cost could cause him to follow Smith to the Steelers this offseason.