The Pittsburgh Steelers are bracing for a major shift at wide receiver. With George Pickens expected to be dealt to the Dallas Cowboys by the end of today, the team will lose its most dynamic playmaker on the outside — a physical mismatch who led the team in receiving yards the past two seasons.
The trade signals a shift in strategy under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and gives Pittsburgh a chance to reshape its pass-catching group with a mix of veteran stability and young potential.
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Depth Chart Takes a Hit With George Pickens Trade
The move also frees up targets for recently acquired DK Metcalf, the new headliner in a retooled room that now features a handful of experienced options and a bunch of distance WR3s. Here’s a breakdown of where things stand with the Steelers’ wide receiver depth chart following the blockbuster move.
DK Metcalf
The undisputed top target in Pittsburgh following the Pickens deal, DK Metcalf brings size, speed, and attitude to the Steelers’ receiver room. A three-time 1,000-yard receiver, he provides the physical presence and deep-threat capability that aligns perfectly with Arthur Smith’s play-action-heavy approach. Metcalf’s red-zone prowess (48 career touchdowns) will be a focal point for whoever starts at quarterback.
Calvin Austin III
Calvin Austin’s speed and agility make him a perfect gadget piece in today’s NFL. After battling injuries early in his career, he flashed his big-play ability in 2024 and should now have a clear path to consistent slot usage. Though only 5’9″, his ability to separate quickly makes him a valuable chain-mover and screen option. Expect Pittsburgh to scheme touches for him to take advantage of his breakaway speed.
Robert Woods
A reliable route-runner with a high football IQ, Robert Woods gives the Steelers a veteran voice in the locker room and on the field. While he’s no longer a 1,000-yard threat, Woods still knows how to find soft spots in zone coverage and bring physicality in the run game. He’s an ideal fit as a steady WR3 or WR4 in a balanced offense.
Roman Wilson
Roman Wilson, a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was injured for most of his rookie season. He appeared in one game. If Wilson can get out of Mike Tomlin’s dog house, it’ll be interesting to see how he is used in Pittsburgh’s offense in 2025.
Ben Skowronek
Ben Skowronek offers the kind of toughness and versatility Pittsburgh covets. He’s a willing blocker, special teams contributor, and hybrid receiver who can even line up in the backfield. Though his ceiling is limited, he’s a trusted role player who can step in when needed without disrupting the flow of the offense.
Scotty Miller
Scotty Miller brings vertical juice to the depth chart and has a history of clutch performances — most notably with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their Super Bowl run. He’s best used as a situational deep threat or slot receiver, particularly on third downs where his speed can create quick mismatches. He’ll compete for rotational snaps but has the experience to carve out a role.
Brandon Johnson
Brandon Johnson brings intriguing upside after flashes of production in Denver. With a solid frame and a knack for contested catches, he profiles as a depth option who could benefit from the increased opportunity created by Pickens’ departure. He’ll have to prove his consistency, but his special teams experience gives him added value on the 53-man roster.
Ke’Shawn Williams
An undrafted rookie with good size and catch radius, Ke’Shawn Williams flashed during rookie minicamp. He’s a long shot for the 53-man roster but could be a practice squad candidate.
Roc Taylor
Roc Taylor’s physical style and YAC ability make him a fit for Pittsburgh’s tough-nosed identity. The UAB product will be looking to prove he belongs.
Lance McCutcheon
Lance McCutcheon, a fringe roster candidate with experience on multiple practice squads, adds depth for training camp but faces an uphill climb to make the final roster.
No Roman Wilson breakdown? Come on gotta make sure you have everyone
He’s in there. Not much to break down since he only played a few snaps last year since he was injured. He was in Tomlin’s dog house, so it’ll be interesting to see if Wilson got out and how he’s used.