The Pittsburgh Steelers made a splash last year by trading for DK Metcalf. However, they still needed a wide receiver entering free agency this year. They decided to take a similar approach this year as they did last year, though. The Steelers reportedly acquired Indianapolis Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr., swapping late-round picks in exchange. Chris Simms thinks that’s a good deal for Pittsburgh.
“Pittman and DK Metcalf are contact, physical wide receivers,” Simms said Monday on his Unbuttoned podcast. “And Pittman, very good intermediate route runner. Tough as hell, catches the ball over the middle. Those two on the outside, Pittman does have some slot versatility…
“This does help their football team. These are two guys that, if they’re one-on-one on the outside, they can make some things happen… I think this certainly improves the Steelers’ offense.”
Pittman was a 2020 second-round pick by the Colts, and he was solid in his six seasons there. He went over 1,000 receiving yards twice, and also caught at least 80 passes in four seasons, including 109 receptions in 2023.
While Pittman’s stats don’t jump off the page, the Colts’ quarterback situation hasn’t been great. The Steelers are dealing with the same issue, but playing alongside Metcalf should be good for Pittman. Metcalf is a freak athlete who defenders need to be aware of at all times. Perhaps that will create more opportunities for Pittman.
Also, as Simms mentions, Pittman gives the Steelers another big receiver. He stands at 6’4” and weighs around 220 pounds. The size that he and Metcalf have should be tough for most defenses to match up against. Smaller corners beware when playing Pittsburgh.
Pittman will turn 29 during this season, so he should have plenty of gas left in the tank. If the Steelers find a consistent starter under center, then their offense could make some noise this year.
Reports indicate the Steelers are interested in bringing Aaron Rodgers back. While he’s not the same player that he used to be, his arm talent still looked strong last year. If Rodgers returns with Pittman in place, he should have better weapons. That could help him improve on his 2025 season, even though he’s 42 years old.
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