Steelers in Talks to Acquire Star WR DK Metcalf: What It Means for the Team

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers made a big splash in free agency on Sunday night by trading for wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks. They gave up a second-round pick in 2025 and quickly signed him to a massive five-year, $150 million extension.

Metcalf, who is 27 years old, had asked for a trade earlier this month as he entered the final year of his previous contract worth $18 million. The Steelers acted fast to secure him at $30 million a year, placing him among the highest-paid wide receivers in the league.

Before this trade, the Steelers had never spent this much on an outside free agent. Their previous biggest deal was a three-year, $41 million contract for linebacker Patrick Queen.

This acquisition follows the Seahawks trading their quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders. With these trades, Seattle now holds five picks in the first three rounds of the upcoming draft, including the 18th overall pick and others.

For the Steelers, acquiring Metcalf addresses a critical need for a big-play receiver. Last season, the Steelers’ receiving corps lacked depth, especially behind George Pickens, who was their standout in 2022. Metcalf averaged 15.0 yards per reception and had a total of 992 yards last season, though he struggled in the second half after an MCL injury.

Since being drafted in 2019, Metcalf has put up impressive numbers, averaging over 1,000 receiving yards and eight touchdowns each season. In contrast, Pickens averaged just over 64 yards per game last year and also battled injuries but showed promise with three touchdowns.

The Steelers had been on the lookout for a top-tier wide receiver, having previously pursued players like Brandon Aiyuk from the 49ers, who ultimately chose to stay in San Francisco. They also secured Mike Williams from the New York Jets but did not see much impact from him after the trade.

With Metcalf now on board, the Steelers definitely improved their wide receiver lineup. However, they still need to figure out their quarterback situation as both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson will be free agents soon. Fields is reportedly keen to explore his options, drawing interest from the Jets as well. Steelers GM Omar Khan has emphasized that addressing the quarterback position is a priority for the team moving forward.

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