High-priced offseason acquisition DK Metcalf was brought in to serve as the alpha receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but two weeks into the season, he looks more like a liability. Following a dismal performance in Pittsburgh’s 20-3 loss to the New England Patriots, the Steelers must reconsider how they distribute targets across their passing attack.
Metcalf was blanketed by Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez, finishing with just four catches for 27 yards on nine targets. He suffered crucial drops, including a third-down pass right into his chest, continuing an early-season slump that has left defenses largely unbothered.
As “Locked on Steelers” host Christopher Carter noted, Metcalf’s inability to create fear or win routine battles is stalling
the offense.
“You think back to several times where he was the game breaker that made other teams, other defenses stressed out,” Carter said. “And who is stressed out about him right now? Nobody.”
While Metcalf struggles, Pittsburgh’s tight end room is offering a far more physical, productive brand of football. Pat Freiermuth provided a steadying presence against New England, securing four catches for 32 yards, while Darnell Washington flashed explosive potential when given an opportunity. Yet, Washington saw minimal targets despite generating real yardage after contact and setting violent blocks.
Carter argued that while Metcalf works through his issues, new head coach Mike McCarthy and quarterback Aaron Rodgers must lean into their physical tight ends to create mismatches and jumpstart the offense.
“Darnell Washington has what, three, four targets to start in the first two weeks of the season,” Carter pointed out. “You're paying him $42 million. Throw him the football. Pat Freiermuth, I thought he was good in this game. Five targets. Get him the football.”
If Pittsburgh’s passing game is to find rhythm, forcing targets to a struggling receiver must stop. The blueprint for success lies in empowering the tight ends to set a physical tone.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Why the Steelers must shift targets away from DK Metcalf
