Post-Rodgers Era: 3 Wide Receiver Prospects For The Pittsburgh Steelers

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 12, 2025

4.4

Share

Post-Rodgers Era: 3 Wide Receiver Prospects for the Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a new era. With the departure of veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the team is undergoing a significant transition, and the wide receiver position is a key area needing attention. While Kenny Pickett showed promise in his rookie season, bolstering the receiving corps is crucial for his development and the team's overall success. This offseason presents a prime opportunity to inject young talent into the lineup, and the NFL Draft offers some exciting prospects. Let's examine three wide receivers who could make a significant impact in the Steel City.

The Need for Speed and Skill

The Steelers need receivers who can stretch the field, create separation, and make contested catches. After a season where the passing game struggled at times, adding explosive playmakers is paramount. The draft presents a chance to address this, and these three players represent different profiles that could fill various roles within the offense.

1. Quentin Johnston, TCU

Johnston is a big-bodied receiver (6'3", 208 lbs) with exceptional speed and the ability to win jump balls. He dominated college football, showcasing impressive route-running skills and a knack for making big plays downfield. His size and athleticism make him a potential X-receiver, a crucial position for any NFL offense. Johnston's highlight-reel catches are the stuff of legend, and his potential to become a true number one receiver is undeniable. He's a high-risk, high-reward prospect, but his upside is tantalizing for a Steelers team looking to make a statement.

Keywords: Quentin Johnston, TCU, Wide Receiver, NFL Draft, Steelers, NFL Draft Prospects, X-receiver, big-bodied receiver

2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State

Unlike Johnston's explosive style, Smith-Njigba offers a more polished, technically sound approach. Known for his precise route running and reliable hands, Smith-Njigba is a slot receiver who excels at getting open and making catches in tight coverage. He's a chain-mover, a player who consistently gains yardage and keeps drives alive. While perhaps lacking Johnston's jaw-dropping athleticism, his consistency and ability to make plays in crucial moments make him an incredibly valuable asset. He could fill a crucial role in the Steelers offense, providing a dependable target for Pickett.

Keywords: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State, Wide Receiver, NFL Draft, Steelers, Slot Receiver, Chain-Mover, Reliable Hands

3. Jordan Addison, USC

Addison brings a blend of speed, agility, and route-running savvy to the table. After transferring from Pitt, he further refined his skills at USC, demonstrating an ability to consistently create separation and make tough catches. Although not as physically imposing as Johnston, Addison's quickness and elusiveness make him a dangerous weapon in the slot or out wide. His experience in the ACC could give him an edge in understanding the intricacies of the conference and its defenses.

Keywords: Jordan Addison, USC, Wide Receiver, NFL Draft, Steelers, Route Running, Agility, ACC Experience

Conclusion: A Promising Future

The Steelers' wide receiver room needs an upgrade, and the 2023 NFL Draft offers several compelling options. Whether it's the explosive talent of Quentin Johnston, the reliable hands of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, or the versatile skillset of Jordan Addison, adding one of these prospects could significantly impact the team's offensive potential. The decision will depend on the Steelers' draft strategy and their assessment of each player's fit within their system. Regardless of who they choose, the future looks bright for the Steelers' passing game. What do you think? Which receiver would be the best fit for the Steelers? Let us know in the comments below!