The Pittsburgh Steelers have traditionally been about running the ball, playing good defense and taking shots when afforded. Last season, Pittsburgh was 28th in passing rate at 51.69%, but 5th in deep passing rate.
On Sunday, they added one of the best deep threats in the game, DK Metcalf, for a 2025 second-round pick.
Pittsburgh also locked up the 27-year wide receiver for five years and $150 million, per The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.
It’s a good fit for both Metcalf and the Steelers, but what does this mean for George Pickens?
Pickens was 11th in yards per reception last season at 15.4. Metcalf was 14th with 15.0. Pickens is 24 years old, but he’s in the last year of his rookie contract and will be an unrestricted free agent after this upcoming season.
Due to the skill overlap and contract given to Metcalf, it seems likely that Pittsburgh will make a move with Pickens at some point.
If Pickens does remain in Pittsburgh, I could see scenarios in which one of Metcalf or Pickens takes the top off the defense while the other runs drags and crossers. If so, the biggest beneficiary could be TE Pat Freiermuth, who would be running free in the belly of defenses.
What about the quarterback?
Having shiny toys at skill positions are nice, but if there is no competent quarterback delivering them the ball, then it’s all for naught. Justin Fields wants to test the free-agent market while Russell Wilson is an unrestricted free agent.
There’s been talk of the Steelers targeting Sam Darnold. Darnold had a great year last season and has the arm to launch passes to Metcalf and Pickens. That said, the Steelers had a poor offensive line, especially for pass blocking, and Darnold sees ghosts when pressured. Plus, he will no longer be under the guidance of Kevin O’Connell.
Depending on the cost, I’m probably out on Metcalf unless Pittsburgh can shore up the offensive line and bring in a good quarterback.
