In the high-stakes game of NFL team-building, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ strategy to equip their newly acquired quarterback Russell Wilson with a formidable receiving corps has hit a rough patch.
The recent signing of Quez Watkins, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, has raised more questions than answers regarding the team’s direction and ability to fill the void left by Diontae Johnson’s departure.
Pittsburgh Steelers Strategy
The Steelers, in a bold move, traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, banking on draft capital and a boost in their cornerback lineup to propel them forward.
This decision has since led them on a quest through free agency and potential draft picks to find a suitable replacement—a journey fraught with challenges and setbacks. The pursuit began with a missed opportunity to meet with Mike Williams, who opted for a partnership with Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets.
Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers also emerged as a potential candidate, but the steep asking price, both in terms of trade compensation and contract demands, deemed the venture too costly for the Steelers.
In their ongoing efforts, Pittsburgh welcomed Van Jefferson into the fold, followed by the acquisition of Quez Watkins. Watkins, known for his speed and ability to threaten deep, presents a skill set that overlaps with Calvin Austin’s, leaving the team’s need for a reliable possession receiver unaddressed.
Pittsburgh Steelers Diontae Johnson wants to see Mason Rudolph play Sunday. #HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/63WR2q5cKM
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) December 15, 2022
Quez Watkins Conundrum
Quez Watkins, while a competent deep threat hardly fits the profile of the wide receiver Pittsburgh is desperately seeking to complement George Pickens. Pickens, a promising talent, is still honing his skills as a route runner, a process that demands time and patience, especially with the introduction of Russell Wilson as the team’s new quarterback.
Watkins’ tenure with the Eagles showcased his potential, highlighted by a breakout season in 2021 where he tallied 43 receptions for 647 yards and a touchdown.
His collegiate speed, evidenced by a 4.35 40-yard dash, is undeniable. Yet, his role in Pittsburgh’s offense raises concerns, particularly in light of the team’s historical approach to selecting wide receivers in the early rounds of the NFL Draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers Draft
The Steelers’ track record of uncovering wide receiver talent in the draft is noteworthy. However, the team’s current predicament underscores a greater need for strategic foresight and adaptability.
As the draft approaches, Pittsburgh’s decision-makers are tasked with not just filling a position but ensuring that the chosen player can elevate the offense and develop a synergistic relationship with Wilson.
In the NFL, the success of a trade or free agency move is often measured not by the immediate impact but by the long-term benefits it brings to the team.
As the Steelers navigate this transitional period, the pressure mounts to make choices that will fortify their receiving corps and, by extension, their competitive edge. Pittsburgh’s journey through the offseason has been a testament to the complex nature of team building in the NFL.
With each move scrutinized and each decision pivotal, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads, seeking to balance immediate needs with the overarching goal of returning to the pinnacle of football success. As they march towards the upcoming season, all eyes will be on their next steps in this challenging quest.
Source: Fan Sided
