The one positional unit going through the greatest change this offseason are the wide receivers. Regardless of anything else, replacing a talent like Antonio Brown won’t be a simple task. So when it comes to the upcoming NFL draft, wide receiver could be a top priority.
Let’s take a look at the wide receiver depth chart going into the final days before the draft.
JuJu Smith-Schuster
A huge reason why the Steelers were comfortable with trading Brown away was the emergence of JuJu Smith-Schuster. He led the team in receptions and receiving yards in 2018 and now takes over the role as the team’s top receiving option. Smith-Schuster is going to see a big bump in coverage this season and must adjust to more double teams.
Donte Moncrief
Pittsburgh added Donte Moncrief as a free agent this offseason. Moncrief is a ridiculously good athlete who hasn’t been able to ever match the production of his measurables. But after more than two seasons with bad quarterbacks, Moncrief should flourish with Ben Roethlisberger.
James Washington
Last year was a learning experience for Washington as he worked to get himself up to speed on the NFL game. The hope is Washington is ready to assume a larger role in the passing offense if he’s polished up his route running and concentration. If he does show growth he could share reps on the outside with Moncrief.
Ryan Switzer/Eli Rogers
In the slot, it looks like it will be a large dose of Ryan Switzer and Eli Rogers. Both guys are quick-footed guys who can find creases in the middle of zone defenses and once they get the football in their hands can make people miss.
Overall
The Steelers have dedicated significant time and energy to the wide receiver prospects so it’s a safe bet Pittsburgh will draft one. The only question becomes when they will draft a receiver? If you are confident in the combination of Moncrief and Washington on the outside, Pittsburgh can probably wait until the fourth round and beyond. But if the Steelers feel more of a need to get someone to take pressure off Smith-Schuster, they might go after a top target.
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