Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf literally can't catch a break, as something appears to be off about the $132 million playmaker in 2026.
Through two games to start the 2026 season, Metcalf has been doing his best Diontae Johnson impersonation, minus the elite route running. Nearing the top of the league with four drops, Metcalf is also struggling to find separation against high-level cornerback play.
The eye test has been bad, but the stats aren't great for Metcalf either: 19 targets, eight receptions, 67 receiving yards, zero touchdowns, four drops, and two unnecessary offensive pass interference penalties.
At this point, the Steelers just aren't getting enough production out of Metcalf for what they're paying him. At an average annual
salary of $33 million, Metcalf's eight receptions through two games equal a massive $4.125 million per catch, or $8.25 million per drop.
The arrival of Mike McCarthy and his new-look offense was supposed to help Metcalf reach a Pro Bowl level once again, but the early returns have been anything but encouraging. Pittsburgh didn't invest $132 million to watch their star receiver become one of the offense's biggest problems. Yes, there's a lot of football left to play, but Metcalf needs to turn things around quickly before this slump becomes a season-long concern.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers have a DK Metcalf problem, and it's getting worse
