Steelers' desperate need at wide receiver could find resolution with Broncos

Pittsburgh could use another receiver or two to upgrade their position group. Right now, no one has been terrific this preseason. George Pickens is a solid top choice on any offense, but Van Jefferson can't be the only guy as the second choice. The Steelers remain in constant trade chatter for an upgrade at receiver, but we will see if they can land someone like Brandon Aiyuk before the regular season begins.

Free agency is another option for the black and gold to try and add a veteran guy still looking for a job. There are some noteworthy names still out there who the black and gold could consider. There is probably a reason those players remain available, but this receiver problem could get to desperate measures for the Steelers. They could even consider waiver wire additions.

Right now, the likes of Calvin Austin III, an inexperienced Roman Wilson, and a handful of journeymen receivers are trying to earn snaps on offense. Some of them will find it difficult to make the roster. This positional group has been a failure on the Steeler's part when it comes to addressing this need. There are a ton of question marks right now.

Not only does the team need an upgrade at one of their starting spots at receiver, but they need upgrades at depth areas too. Adding a top receiver is one thing, and that will provide a trickle-down with the rest of the depth chart. Don't forget that depth is scarce and providing some quality players behind potential upgrades at a starting role might be the best outcome.

Tim Patrick could be the perfect option for the Steelers at receiver

It's been tough sledding for Tim Patrick over the past several seasons. He has not played a regular-season game since the 2021 campaign. Ever since then, he has been hampered by season-ending injuries. He has been a great story to monitor at Broncos training camp as fans are rooting for him. They want him to overcome those follies to make the roster.

He is on a good path to force his name onto that final roster when it is all said and done, but there are no guarantees. Being out for two seasons can take a career off a good path and veer someone into early retirement. Patrick is working his way back to beat those odds. If things don't work out in Denver, then he will get a job elsewhere.

If this veteran receiver gets cut by the Broncos, the Steelers would be foolish to not bring him in. Before his injuries, Patrick totaled over 700 receiving yards in back-to-back years. He was also able to wrangle in 11 touchdowns during that same period. It would be foolish to assume the now 30-year-old can replicate those numbers, but he would still be an upgrade.

At the very least, Patrick would provide a quality fourth option at receiver and could start if needed. He is a big target and has been successful in the past. His availability will depend on how the Broncos want their receiving core to look. Patrick would be a nice quiet addition for the Steelers to either provide depth or push Jefferson for a starting spot on offense.