That production led fans to speculate about potential acquisitions, including Calvin Ridley, Garrett Wilson, and Josh Downs. But the Steelers will continue with their current group for the second half of the season. When quarterback Aaron Rodgers was asked whether the team has enough at receiver to make the playoffs, he gave a concise answer: “Yeah, but we got to get healthy.”
### Health Could Strengthen the Steelers’ Receiving Group
Pittsburgh added Michael Pittman Jr. earlier this year to work alongside Metcalf, but Pittman has played in only three games and is working his way back from injured reserve. Roman Wilson is also on injured reserve after appearing in five games. Ben Skowronek is recovering from an injury as well.
The Steelers may be counting on those players’ returns to provide a boost without making another trade. The team is 6-2, and a healthier lineup could give Rodgers more options. At full strength, his main targets could include Metcalf, Pittman, and Germie Bernard, with Wilson also in the mix. Tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, along with running back Jaylen Warren, add further options.
### Metcalf’s Production Remains a Key Factor
The success of that plan will depend in part on Metcalf and Pittman delivering on the expectations attached to their contracts. Pittsburgh has tried to get Metcalf involved with screen passes, but the results have been limited. The Steelers have targeted him on 10 screens this season; six gained three yards or fewer, including one that gained no yards, one that lost a yard, and one that ended in a drop.
The return of injured receivers could draw some defensive attention away from Metcalf and create more opportunities for him. If he continues to struggle, however, the Steelers’ decision to remain quiet at the trade deadline is likely to remain a talking point.
