Assessing the Steelers Trade and Signing of DK Metcalf
p/c: Eamon Horwedel-Imagn
On Sunday evening, Omar Khan made his biggest transaction as Pittsburgh Steelers general manager, acquiring two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks. In return the Seahawks are receiving a 2025 second round draft pick.
The trade was then followed up Metcalf signing a new five-year contract for a reported $150 million, which in terms of average money, now makes it the largest deal in Steelers’ franchise history.
Metcalf spent the first six years of his NFL career in Seattle, where he turned into one of the premiere wideouts in the league. He recorded three 1,000-yard seasons, and almost did it a fourth time in 2024, as he put up 992 yards.
In regards to all-time Seahawks receivers, Metcalf is sixth in receiving yards (6,324), while being fourth in touchdown receptions (48).
Seattle is clearly looking to overhaul their offense, this after they released receiver Tyler Lockett, and traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this week.
Assessment: Metcalf had wanted out of Seattle, so a trade seemed to be inevitable. The Seahawks got themselves some pretty good draft capital; obtaining a second round pick for this year.
As for the Steelers, they hit the jackpot, on a Top 15 WR in the league, which creates a potentially dynamic, 1-2 combination, alongside George Pickens. They also have Calvin Austin III, who really took a nice, step forward in ‘24, as Pittsburgh’s slot guy.
After the way Omar Khan handled the wide receiving situation last year, he did a complete 180, to start off this offseason.
It’s natural to think that Russell Wilson could re-sign with the Steelers, given that he was teammates with Metcalf in Seattle.
While it remains unclear who will anchor the Steelers’ offense at quarterback, the addition of Metcalf may have put other AFC contenders, especially within the division, on watchful notice heading into next season.