TheSteelers have been searching for a true WR1 for years. Now, they’ve got one.
Pittsburgh pulled off a major trade Sunday, acquiring wide receiver DK Metcalffrom the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick. The teams also swapped late-round selections, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. But the real headline? Metcalf isn’t just joining a new team-he’s getting paid. The 27-year-old signed a five-year, $150 million extension, locking him in as the Steelers’ top target for years to come.
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This move didn’t come out of nowhere. Metcalf had been looking for a new deal and a fresh start, and with Seattle shifting gears offensively, the timing made sense. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh had been chasing an elite wide receiver, previously trying (and failing) to land Brandon Aiyuk last offseason. Now, they finally have their guy.
A crowded receiver room in Pittsburgh
Metcalf’s arrival is a game-changer, but it also raises questions. George Pickens, Pittsburgh’s rising star, is heading into the final year of his rookie deal. The two share a similar skill set-both are physical, contested-catch threats who thrive on big plays. Can they coexist in the same offense, or does this trade signal a shift in Pickens’ future with the team?
The Steelers’ quarterback situation adds another layer of intrigue. Both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, who started games for Pittsburgh last season, are set to hit free agency. So, while Metcalf adds explosiveness to the offense, who will be throwing him the ball remains a major unanswered question.
A new era in Seattle
On the other side, Seattle is embracing a major transition. Not only is Metcalf gone, but quarterback Geno Smith is reportedly heading to the Las Vegas Raiders, and longtime receiver Tyler Lockett has been released. That leaves Jaxon Smith-Njigba as the new WR1, but with so much uncertainty at quarterback, Seattle’s offense is entering uncharted waters.
For Pittsburgh, though, the message is clear: They’re all-in on making a run. Metcalf gives them a true No. 1 receiver, something they haven’t had since Antonio Brown. Now, it’s up to the Steelers to figure out the next piece-who will lead the offense under center?
