Steelers Could Re-Sign Veteran Wide Receiver: Report

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Two 49ers beat writers said Deebo Samuel, who is planning to engage the Pittsburgh Steelers in trade talks, could be released this offseason.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have already made some key additions at the start of the NFL’s free agency period. More specifically, on offense, Steelers GM Omar Khan made the move to trade for and extend former Indianapolis Colts 1,000-yard wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. Additionally, veteran running back Rico Dowdle, fresh off of back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, was signed to a multi-year deal by Pittsburgh.

Now, the organization might not be done making moves. According to Steelers insider Jeff Hathhorn, Pittsburgh could still re-sign veteran pass-catcher Calvin Austin III, who is still sitting out on the free agent market.

Calvin Austin III Could Help the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offense Once Again

GettyWR Calvin Austin III helped the Steelers clinch the AFC North in Week 18 by catching the game-winning touchdown pass from QB Aaron Rodgers.

While Austin was not necessarily a superstar performer in terms of production, he was a valuable role player on former head coach Mike Tomlin‘s teams over the last few seasons. A former fourth-round pick out of Memphis, Austin’s best season came in 2024 when he caught 36 passes for 548 yards and four touchdowns. While these kinds of numbers aren’t crazy, he proved to be a reliable pass-catcher further on down the depth chart.

If Austin were to be re-signed, the contract likely wouldn’t be for more than a year or two. Furthermore, Austin wouldn’t have the pressure on him as he has had in years past. With the recent trades for Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf and Pittman in each of the last two offseasons, Austin could slide in behind those guys and perform well in the slot.

The Steelers Could Have One of the NFL’s Most Versatile Offenses in 2026

GettyDK Metcalf led the Steelers in receiving yards last season.

While an Aaron Rodgers return to Pittsburgh could be the secret to the Steelers’ hopeful success in 2026 under new head coach Mike McCarthy, the physicality could be another x-factor for them. Not only do the Steelers now have two starting wide receivers who stand at 6’3″ or taller and weigh at least 225 pounds in Metcalf and Pittman, but they have a steady tight end group, too.

Veteran tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington provide the team with a balance of receiving and run-blocking. The latter both allows and could allow for the likes of 1,200-yard scrimmage back Jaylen Warren and Dowdle to make magic happen on the ground. So, it is fair to say that this offensive unit is filled with quality pieces.

The icing on the cake for this unit could be that aforementioned return of Rodgers. A return for the four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion would likely complete the cast of McCarthy’s offense. While he isn’t what he once was, he did record 25 total touchdowns and just seven interceptions en route to helping the Steelers win their first division title in five years. Throw in a reunion with his former head coach in Green Bay, who helped him win multiple MVPs, and Pittsburgh could really be sitting on the verge of a potentially special run this upcoming year.

Tim Lindsey A Chicago-area native, Tim Lindsey has covered the world of sports through a variety of different lenses. More specifically, he has been an NFL writer for sites such as Sports Illustrated and PFSN. Notable teams like the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been a major point of emphasis for the longtime writer in the past. More about Tim Lindsey