Steelers' Calvin Austin reveals what impresses Aaron Rodgers most about his abilities
In a one-on-one interview with Action News 5 Sports Director Doc Holliday, Austin revealed a few aspects of his game that caught Rodgers' eye:
'The first time I met [Aaron Rodgers], one of the first things he said was about my speed,' Austin said. 'Obviously, that's my main thing. It's something that got me to the point I'm at today. But one of the other things he was talking about was me going over the middle to make those tough catches. And that was something that I just really worked on last year and wanted to show — that I'm not just a straight down-the-field speed guy. Tough third downs, across the middle, I'm the guy that can make those catches and show up in those big, crucial moments.'
Rodgers recently built chemistry with a group of Steelers pass catchers in Malibu this summer, including Austin, DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek, Scotty Miller, and Pat Freiermuth.
Many have predicted a 2025 breakout year for Austin, who produced 548 receiving yards and four touchdowns on 36 receptions last season in the Russell Wilson–Justin Fields QB experiment. Steelers wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni also expressed belief in Austin's Year 4 jump — confidently stating the lightning-fast receiver holds the pole position for WR2.
If there's any quarterback who can get the most out of Austin, it's Rodgers — a four-time MVP and 20-year veteran, who's gearing up for what looks like his final season in 2025.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
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