The Pittsburgh Steelers had one of the NFL’s worst wide receiver corps last season, making it difficult to push the ball downfield. They ranked 22nd in passing yards, as Aaron Rodgers simply didn’t have many options to throw the ball to beyond D.K. Metcalf.

Metcalf was the only Steelers pass catcher with more than 500 receiving yards, and their only wide receiver with over 400. They lacked a legit WR2 and dearly missed George Pickens, whom they foolishly traded to the Dallas Cowboys before the season started.

Pittsburgh tried to land an impact receiver at the trade deadline but failed, missing a chance to upgrade its WR room. The Steelers were reportedly close to a deal for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, but the trade fell through.

Pittsburgh remains interested in Waddle, however, and may try again to acquire him this offseason. Per 93.7 The Fan’s Andrew Fillipponi, Steelers correspondent Mark Kaboly from “The Pat McAfee Show” recently said to “keep an eye on” them potentially pursuing Waddle.

Report: Steelers correspondent from the Pat McAfee show Mark Kaboly says to “keep an eye on” on the Steelers trading for Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle. Mark points out the Steelers thought they had a deal done for Waddle at the NFL trade deadline. Something to watch at the combine. pic.twitter.com/T5CvPY0n1x

— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) February 21, 2026

Regardless of whether Rodgers comes back or who’s under center for Pittsburgh next season, Waddle would be a huge upgrade for them. He’s one of the best wideouts in the NFL and already has three 1,000-yard seasons under his belt. His 910 receiving yards last year would have led the Steelers, and that was a “down” season for him.

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At 27 years old, Waddle is squarely in his prime. He’s also about to begin a three-year extension that runs through 2028, so he wouldn’t be just a rental.

A receiving tandem of Metcalf and Waddle would be one of the best in the league and give the offense a much higher ceiling. After missing out on Waddle at the deadline, can Pittsburgh finally reel him in?

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