The Pittsburgh Steelers may surprisingly pursue 1,000-yard free agent, Richie James this offseason. According to a report, the team may pursue the former Super Bowl champion to solve their issue at the wide receiver position. The Steelers don’t look to be in the market to trade for a wideout anymore after attempting to with Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and D.K. Metcalf. They may be busy this offseason but they haven’t been making any moves to improve the team after signing Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to beef up the quarterback competition.
Talking heads are eager to see who will be Diontae Johnson’s replacement since their only top weapon is George Pickens. However, the clock is running and there isn’t a lot of time before the upcoming season. James isn’t going to command a high-salary contract so it’s something that Pittsburgh should be able to afford. He didn’t play a massive role with the Chiefs but he was a contributor for the Giants in 2022, tallying 569 yards and four touchdowns.
James isn’t changing the landscape of wideout corps but he would give the Steelers another reliable pass-catcher and an option on special teams. He was lacking with the Chiefs but it shouldn’t be overshadowed by what he did when he was in New York. On special teams, he posted 10 yards per punt return with 200 yards on 20 returns. Pickens was the only receiver on the roster last season to have at least 210 receiving yards.
James isn’t changing that fact but it gives the Steelers another rotational piece for Fields and Wilson to work with. He didn’t receive a lot of playing time on offense but he got a couple of opportunities on special teams last year. This could change if he signs in Pittsburgh.
Steelers May Surprisingly Pursue 1,000-Yard Free Agent Richie James
Other Potential Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are adding Nelson Agholor to the mix this upcoming since Odell Beckham Jr’s departure. However, it may not be enough stability to give Lamar Jackson another opportunity for a third MVP or a run at a Super Bowl. If they want to become true contenders to take on championship teams like the Chiefs then they bring in enough weapons for cheap. James hasn’t been doing anything special on offensive snaps but he could be a reliable asset on the trickery plays teaming with Derrick Henry through the run.
However, Rashod Bateman is coming back on a new contract but they may be switching him sporadically as a deep threat and slot receiver. James should be able to fill that role so Bateman can focus on whatever placement John Harbaugh wants him to be on. Zay Flowers is still their best receiver so it gives them breathing room in case of any injuries.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers don’t have anything to lose since they’re adding numerous receivers since parting ways with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. They should probably keep adding more wideout depth to help Justin Herbert spread the offense and decide who comes out with more reliability. Ladd McConkey is a rising talent who’s been impressive at practice but they need a true proven receiver and James has the experience but he has the opportunity to establish himself under a new scenery.
DJ Chark, Quentin Johnson and Josh Palmer all look to be temporary weapons since the Chargers are probably just testing the waters.
New Orleans Saints
Dennis Allen gotta do something to help Derek Carr, right? The Saints may be dealing with salary cap issues but it shouldn’t stop them from getting a cost-effective weapon. Chris Olave is their only top receiver option that can haul in balls but Rashid Shaheed barely has any experience. It doesn’t look too promising for a team that needs a fresh campaign from Carr after a disappointing one last year.
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