The Pittsburgh Steelers’ wide receiver lineup underwent significant changes during the 2024 season. The team traded Diontae Johnson to acquire cornerback Donte Jackson and later brought in veteran Mike Williams from the Jets at the NFL trade deadline. Despite these moves, the team’s passing attack saw mixed results throughout the season.
George Pickens, one of the returning players from 2023, had a solid year with 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns over 14 games. His average of 15.3 yards per catch ranked him sixth among NFL receivers with at least 50 receptions. However, Pickens also faced challenges, including penalties for taunting and unsportsmanlike conduct. Head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Pickens’ talent but noted room for growth: “Certainly there’s a lot of room for growth there,” Tomlin said. “I think he covered some ground in 2024 but there’s certainly a heck of a lot more ground to be covered, and we’ll see where it leads us.”
Calvin Austin III emerged as another bright spot for the Steelers’ offense. The third-year player recorded 36 catches for 548 yards and four touchdowns while also serving as the team’s punt returner with a seventh-ranked average of 10.3 yards per return in the NFL.
Veterans Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller, Ben Skowronek, and Mike Williams contributed various roles throughout the season. Jefferson started in most games but was more effective as a blocker than as a receiver with his two touchdowns on just 24 catches for 276 yards. Williams displayed his downfield abilities but did not have the impact expected by the Steelers when Pickens was unavailable.
Miller’s role was limited to five receptions over thirteen games due to his slot-only position. Skowronek matched Miller’s reception total while excelling as a gunner on punt coverage and providing value as a depth piece.
Rookie Roman Wilson struggled with injuries during his first year after being drafted out of Michigan in the third round; he played only five offensive snaps this season.
Looking ahead to free agency at start next league year will see potential changes once again among wide receivers such as Williams Jefferson Skowronek Miller becoming unrestricted free agents
