Steelers Still Hopeful To Improve The Wide Receiver Position: 'Definitely Snooping Around'

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2024 NFL Draft with significant needs, particularly focused on improving their offensive line and securing talent at both center and wide receiver positions. Remarkably, they addressed all three areas in the first three rounds of the draft, executing their plan flawlessly.

With the 84th pick, the Steelers selected Roman Wilson, a standout wide receiver known for his ability to score touchdowns despite playing in an offense that wasn't heavily reliant on passing. Wilson's performance in college showcased his reliability, evident in his impressive route running and his commendable attitude as a team-first player. Notably, he dropped just one pass throughout the entirety of the 2023 season, further highlighting his dependable nature.

Although Wilson now joins the Steelers as a rookie, there's a sense of anticipation regarding his potential impact on the team. However, it's acknowledged that success isn't guaranteed, and there remains a degree of risk in relying solely on a rookie to fill a crucial position.

During a recent appearance on 93.7 The Fan, Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly discussed the outcomes of the 2024 draft. When questioned about the Steelers continued efforts to bolster their wide receiver corps, Kaboly expressed confidence in the Steelers' ongoing pursuit of additional talent at the position. He doesn't believe they are finished.

"Yeah, I think they are. I mean, they got a little bit more leeway right now where they don't have to make the splash move or pay too much for it. But there has to be somebody out there. It doesn't have to be right now. I mean, it could be a guy that a team can dump September 1st... but I think they're going to definitely look to upgrade that roster.”

Even though the Steelers drafted Wilson, they still are interested in bringing in more help at wide receiver. Kaboly doesn't foresee any imminent acquisitions at the wide receiver position. Nonetheless, he maintains that the Steelers acknowledge the necessity of enhancing their wide receiver depth.

"I think they are definitely snooping around and if something presents themselves, I don't think they would hesitate to go out and get somebody."

While the Steelers have added some assistance with Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins, Kaboly finds amusement in the notion of them being significant contributors. While both are reliable players, the reality is that the gap in talent beyond George Pickens is substantial. Many believe that as things stand, Wilson is poised to step into the number two receiver role.

Although the Steelers boast depth at the wide receiver position, they lack intimidating threats outside of Pickens. Throughout the offseason, the Steelers have been eager to bolster their receiving corps to complement Pickens effectively. Despite reports indicating their efforts, they've struggled to finalize any deals. Kaboly remains skeptical that the Steelers are finished, anticipating continued activity in the market.

Steelers Have A Solid Option In Brandin Cooks

A name that Kaboly brought up a couple of weeks ago was Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Cooks, a seasoned veteran, has experienced stints with multiple teams but has yet to fully realize his potential in his career. Nonetheless, he's coming off a highly productive 2023 season, amassing eight touchdowns, catching 54 passes, and accumulating 657 receiving yards.

With the Steelers trading Diontae Johnson, the notion of replacing him with Cooks might sound unconventional at first glance. However, not only would acquiring Cooks likely come at a lower cost, but his 2023 production is comparable to Johnson's. In that year, Johnson recorded 51 catches for 717 receiving yards and five touchdowns.

While acknowledging the contrasting offensive schemes between the Cowboys and Steelers, Kaboly suggested that Cooks might not even be available for trade. However, given the Cowboys' interest in shedding contracts to alleviate financial burdens, Cooks could potentially be among those on the trading block. In such a scenario, the Steelers could emerge as viable candidates to acquire Cooks.