Steelers roster spotlight: Can Michael Pittman Jr. prove the trade was no mistake?
Article excerpt
As the Pittsburgh Steelers move closer to the 2026 season, we’re taking a closer look at every player on the roster, with Michael Pittman Jr. up next.
Michael Pittman Jr. was one of the Pittsburgh Steelers' biggest acquisitions this offseason. But he apparently has some doubters to silence after ESPN referred to the trade as a mistake.
From now to the start of the regular season, we at Steelers Wire will be analyzing every player on the roster. Here's a look at Pittman and what could be in store for his 2026 season.
At a glance
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 223 pounds
Age: 28 years old
NFL experience: 7
Career with the Steelers
In six seasons with the Colts, Pittman recorded 5,254 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns. He was traded to the Steelers in March in exchange for a late-round pick swap. Pittman signed a two-year, $59 million extension with the Steelers, which, honestly, is a steal for a receiver of his caliber.
What's next in 2026?
Pittman, a big-bodied receiver who excels in contested-catch scenarios, is an excellent addition to Pittsburgh's roster for the 2026 season. Pittman gives Aaron Rodgers a reliable second wide receiver who should pull some attention away from DK Metcalf. He's also a reliable blocker, which should come in handy with the impressive running back duo of Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle.
While ESPN went so far as to call the trade a mistake, there's reason to believe Pittman could be in for a career year in the Mike McCarthy-led offense.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers roster spotlight: Can Michael Pittman Jr. prove the trade was no mistake?