Three Wide Receivers The Pittsburgh Steelers Could Draft Or Sign After Aaron Rodgers

David

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Post on Jun 12, 2025

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Three Wide Receivers the Pittsburgh Steelers Could Draft or Sign After Aaron Rodgers' Arrival

The Green Bay Packers' trade of Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets sent shockwaves through the NFL, but perhaps nowhere more so than in Pittsburgh. With Rodgers' departure, the AFC North landscape shifts, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, already facing questions at wide receiver, now find themselves needing to bolster their receiving corps even more. While the Steelers' immediate focus may be on other positions, adding a dynamic wide receiver is paramount to maximizing their offensive potential in 2023. But who could they target? Let's explore three potential options for the Steelers, considering both the NFL Draft and free agency.

1. Zay Flowers: Electrifying Speed and Playmaking Ability

Zay Flowers, from Boston College, is widely considered one of the most explosive wide receiver prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. His speed, agility, and ability to create separation are undeniable assets. Flowers possesses the kind of game-breaking potential that could immediately elevate the Steelers' offense. He's a polished route runner with excellent hands, capable of making contested catches and turning short passes into significant gains.

Why he fits the Steelers: The Steelers need a receiver who can stretch the field and create big plays, something Flowers excels at. His after-the-catch ability would also complement Najee Harris in the running game. Pairing Flowers with a veteran presence like Diontae Johnson could create a dynamic duo for quarterback Kenny Pickett.

Potential Draft Position: Flowers could be available in the late first round or early second round, making him a realistic target for the Steelers.

2. Allen Lazard: A Reliable Veteran Presence

While drafting a young talent is appealing, adding a veteran receiver like Allen Lazard through free agency could provide the Steelers with an immediate impact player and a strong mentor for younger receivers. Lazard spent several seasons playing alongside Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay, developing a strong rapport and understanding of the quarterback's tendencies.

Why he fits the Steelers: Lazard is a reliable target with good size and strong hands. He's adept at winning contested catches and excels in short to intermediate routes. His experience playing with a proven quarterback like Rodgers would make him a valuable asset in the Steelers’ locker room and on the field. He would provide a solid, dependable target for Kenny Pickett while the younger receivers develop.

Potential Acquisition: While the free agency market is fluid, Lazard's familiarity with the type of offense the Steelers run makes him a potential fit. His price point will be key in determining whether the Steelers pursue him.

3. Jalin Hyatt: The Deep Threat Option

Tennessee's Jalin Hyatt is a different kind of receiver – a true deep threat. His blazing speed and ability to create separation downfield would add another dimension to the Steelers' offense. While he may need some refinement in his route running, his potential is undeniable.

Why he fits the Steelers: Hyatt's speed is a game-changer. A deep threat that can consistently stretch the field would open up more opportunities for other receivers and create more manageable matchups for Pickett. He could be a valuable weapon in specific offensive situations.

Potential Draft Position: Like Flowers, Hyatt's draft stock places him as a potential late first or early second-round pick.

Conclusion: Building a Stronger Receiving Corps

The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crucial juncture. Adding a talented wide receiver, whether through the NFL Draft or free agency, is vital to their success in 2023. Each of these three options presents different strengths and fits various needs within the Steelers’ offensive scheme. The ultimate decision will depend on factors such as draft-day availability, contract negotiations, and the team's overall strategic direction. One thing is certain: the Steelers will be actively looking to upgrade their receiving game. The question is: which of these players will they choose to help Kenny Pickett and the Steelers soar to new heights?