The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense has hit a rough patch in recent weeks. After opening the season as an above-average unit that exceeded expectations, the group has slipped into mediocrity and now struggles to move the ball consistently.
While not the only issue, the lack of reliable receiving options has certainly contributed to the decline.
What was once a comfortable lead in the AFC North has all but vanished. Pittsburgh remains in first place, but the Ravens are now just one game behind after surging back into contention. With two head-to-head matchups still on the schedule, the Steelers need every advantage they can get to keep the division within reach.
They may have just been handed that opportunity with the sudden availability of Brandin Cooks. The former first-round pick and the Saints agreed to mutually part ways this week, and Pittsburgh should act quickly.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could bolster their WR room with Brandin Cooks
While no longer the dominant playmaker he once was, Brandin Cooks remains a legitimate receiving threat. His deep speed has tapered off, but he still runs sharp routes and can separate from defenders.
He wouldn’t walk in as an immediate starter, but he would raise the floor of a position group filled with inconsistent backups.
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D.K. Metcalf has drawn constant double teams with little help around him. Calvin Austin has regressed, seeing more time on the bench. Roman Wilson has flashed but hasn’t been consistent enough to relieve pressure from Metcalf.
Cooks doesn’t instantly fix everything, but he can stabilize the group, push the younger receivers, and step in as a reliable second option if they continue to struggle.
The team hoped Marquez Valdes-Scantling would fill that role, but his skillset is limited to vertical routes—something the Steelers haven’t been able to capitalize on lately.
Cooks isn’t a cure-all, but he is a clear upgrade over their current depth and remains in game shape. Omar Khan should make the call before another team beats them to it.
With the AFC North tightening, Cooks could be the late-season addition who makes a real difference for Pittsburgh.