The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the hunt for some backup firepower to support their star receiver, DK Metcalf, who carried a hefty load last season. As the team looks to bolster its receiving corps, they have several intriguing options in free agency, including the likes of Romeo Doubs, Jauan Jennings, Alec Pierce, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Rashid Shaheed.
But the plot thickens. The Athletic recently highlighted potential cut candidates across the NFL, and Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts emerged as a name to watch.
Pittman, a seasoned wideout, is facing a hefty $29 million cap hit in 2026. With Alec Pierce stepping up as the Colts' primary target, Indianapolis might not be keen on retaining Pittman at that price.
The Colts have a couple of paths forward: Pittman could agree to restructure his deal to stay on board, or the team could part ways with him, freeing up $24 million in cap space while incurring just $5 million in dead money.
Pittman, a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has proven his mettle with 1,000-yard receiving seasons in both 2021 and 2023, leading the Colts in receiving yards each year from 2021 to 2023. With 485 receptions, 5,254 receiving yards, and 25 touchdown catches, he's been a standout performer for the Colts.
However, this past season, Pittman experienced a dip, recording his lowest receiving yards (784) and receiving yards per game (46.1) since his rookie year.
Meanwhile, Calvin Austin III, who contributed 372 receiving yards and three touchdowns on 31 receptions for the Steelers last season, is also entering free agency. The Steelers have some decisions to make as they aim to strengthen their lineup for the upcoming season.