Since 2018, only two Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers have topped 1,000 yards in a season — Diontae Johnson in 2021 and George Pickens in 2023. That kind of production slump became hard to ignore for a franchise once known for its dominant wideouts.
So this offseason, the Steelers made a splash, trading a second- and seventh-round pick to Seattle for star receiver DK Metcalf and a sixth-rounder. They quickly followed up by signing him to a five-year, $150 million deal — betting on his size, speed, and ability to reignite Pittsburgh’s passing game.
One part of Metcalf’s game-day that fuels the Pro Bowler caught folks in Pittsburgh off guard.
Did Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Know About DK Metcalf’s Candy Addiction?
During a recent press conference, Mark Kaboly of The Pat McAfee Show asked Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin if he knew about Metcalf’s unique daily diet — which includes a whole lot of candy.
“No, I didn’t,” Tomlin said, grinning. “Really? He wears it a little different than you.”
I guess I asked for it. 🤷🏻‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/xI2dSfxbZZ
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) March 31, 2025
The room cracked up at Tomlin’s playful shot at Kaboly, a rare light moment from a coach who usually keeps it buttoned up at the mic.
When Did Steelers’ Metcalf Originally Reveal Candy-Heavy Diet?
Metcalf’s sweet tooth isn’t breaking news to everyone. After his new contract had made headlines, fans dug up an old clip from his appearance on the KG Certified Podcast with NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett. In the March 24, 2022, episode, Metcalf broke down his daily eating habits, leaving Garnett stunned.
“I’m a candy-type person. I eat one meal a day, drink one coffee, and eat like three full bags of candy,” Metcalf said. “Yesterday, I woke up, worked out. Worked out again, came home, showered. I’m hungry, so I ran to Starbucks and grabbed a coffee.”
He continued: “This 12 [ounce coffee] will hold me for like four hours. Around 4:30, I ordered some candy and a water. I got Skittles gummies and the Lifesavers Creations… get the gummies, get the candy, get the water, eat that. That’s gonna hold me until when I’m having dinner at 8 or 9.”
It might not be the nutrition plan most NFL strength coaches would recommend, but it hasn’t slowed him down yet. Metcalf has piled up 438 receptions, 6,324 yards, and 48 touchdowns in six seasons. He’s hit 1,000 receiving yards three times and logged two seasons with double-digit touchdowns.
Heading into 2025, he’s expected to lead the Steelers’ receiving corps — and candy habit or not, Pittsburgh is counting on him to bring some fire back to the offense.