In a move that’s sure to have fans buzzing, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks officially completed the much-anticipated trade involving star wide receiver D.K. Metcalf. Although the deal was struck on Sunday, it couldn’t be announced until the 2025 NFL league year kicked off on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET. The Steelers landed Metcalf along with a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, sending back second and seventh-round picks to Seattle.
Metcalf made his way to Pittsburgh on Thursday, where he signed his contract and revealed his new jersey number, which will be No. 4 – a fresh start for the talented receiver. During his introductory press conference, he noted that he opted not to ask fellow wideout George Pickens to part with his No. 14 jersey; instead, he’s ready to carve out his own identity with the Steelers.
This acquisition gives Pittsburgh a potent one-two punch at wide receiver as they gear up for the 2025 season. For over a year, the Steelers have been eyeing a top-tier wideout, and they’ve finally struck gold with Metcalf, who is a serious threat on any play. Defenses will need to recalibrate their game plans now that they have to contend with both Metcalf and Pickens.
Last season, Metcalf showcased his abilities with 66 receptions adding up to 992 yards and five touchdowns. Impressively, he has surpassed 900 receiving yards in each of his first six NFL seasons, hitting the 1,000-yard mark three times. His standout year came in 2020 when he racked up 83 catches, 1,303 yards, and 10 touchdowns—a testament to his playmaking skills.
However, while the offense is shaping up nicely with Metcalf in the fold, the Steelers are still in search of a starting quarterback. They’ve brought Mason Rudolph back on a two-year deal, but he is likely looking at a backup role if they’re able to finalize a deal for Aaron Rodgers, who remains a pivotal point of interest. For now, the Steelers are holding their breath as they await an update on Rodgers, who has an offer sitting on the table.
After finishing the 2024 season with a respectable 10-7 record, the Steelers were halted in the wild-card round of the playoffs by their rivals, the Baltimore Ravens. With Metcalf now on board, the excitement is palpable as Pittsburgh aims to elevate its game in the coming season.
