Steelers WR Calvin Austin III named Pittsburgh's offseason surprise
ESPN named one offseason surprise for every team after minicamps, and for the Steelers, they picked Austin. Here's what ESPN Steelers writer Brooke Pryor had to say about Austin.
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Since trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers are squarely in need of a No. 2 wide receiver to complement DK Metcalf. WR coach Zach Azzanni, though, believes they already have someone in the building to fill that role. "I think that '2' spot is all Calvin's right now," Azzanni said during the Steelers' minicamp.
Selected 86 picks after Pickens in 2022, Austin missed his entire rookie year with an injury but has turned into a steady contributor in each of his last two seasons. Austin was just behind Pickens last season, averaging 15.2 yards per reception, and he hauled in four touchdowns to Pickens' three. Austin still has to build chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but he made plays throughout the Steelers' OTAs and minicamp with Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and Will Howard throwing him the football.
If Austin looked the best in offseason work on offense for the Steelers, the next best was fellow receiver Wilson. Wilson missed his entire rookie campaign with an injury and looked tremendous as well. Austin's experience with the team gives him an edge and if he's 100 percent healthy, he should have a very strong season.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers WR Calvin Austin III named Pittsburgh's offseason surprise
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