The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be getting exactly the news they wanted regarding their top two wide receivers.
DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. are both expected to be ready for the Steelers’ Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, according to Nick Farabaugh of PennLive. The report provides a significant dose of optimism after both veterans have been sidelined for roughly a week and a half with injuries.
Metcalf is dealing with an undisclosed injury, while Pittman has been battling a minor hamstring issue. Neither player has indicated that the injuries are expected to become long-term concerns, with both anticipating that they will be available when the regular season begins Sept. 13.
That is particularly important for a Steelers offense entering its second season with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback and a revamped receiving corps. Pittsburgh made a significant investment in its wide receiver room this offseason, adding Pittman to a group that already featured Metcalf while also drafting Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard in the second round.
The Steelers have been cautious with their two veteran starters during the preseason. Head coach Mike McCarthy indicated that neither Metcalf nor Pittman was expected to practice this week, meaning both are likely to miss Friday’s preseason matchup against the New York Jets.
While their absence limits the opportunities for Rodgers to develop further chemistry with his new-look receiving corps, the bigger picture is clearly focused on having both players healthy when the games count.
The early returns from the rest of the receiver room have also been encouraging. Bernard, Roman Wilson and others have received additional opportunities while Metcalf and Pittman have been sidelined, giving Pittsburgh a chance to evaluate its depth heading into the regular season.
For the Steelers, however, the biggest takeaway is simple: If Metcalf and Pittman remain on track, Pittsburgh should have its projected top two receivers available for Rodgers when the Falcons arrive at Acrisure Stadium.
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