Coming into the 2024 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers had a number of gamers primed to be key contributors. Clearly there’s George Pickens, Najee Harris and Pat Freiermuth. All three of these have blossomed at instances with Russell Wilson at quarterback. Nonetheless, one participant who’s been surprisingly constant is Calvin Austin III.
After having simply 17 receptions for 180 yards in 2023, Austin has taken on a much bigger function this season. He’s been big at times when the Steelers have actually wanted a spark. With Pittsburgh looking for huge receiver assist exterior of the group all through the calendar yr, Austin has quietly made himself into an in-house resolution to that drawback.
One factor’s for certain: Austin has fashioned a superb relationship together with his quarterback, Russell Wilson. The nine-time Professional Bowler has had a number of good issues to say about Austin since signing with the Steelers. That theme continued on Wednesday.
“I believe anytime you’ve got an urge for food for studying and processing and rising, you’ve bought an amazing probability,” Wilson mentioned by way of a team-provided transcript. “And [Calvin Austin] positively has that. Clearly, his velocity and skill out and in of cuts is spectacular. He can do all of it. He’s been one of many largest highlights, I believe, not simply of the Pittsburgh Steelers however within the Nationwide Soccer League by way of a man that’s up and coming and has an opportunity to be actually particular.”
That is some excessive reward from Wilson. He’s at all times one to talk positively about teammates, however making the case for Austin being one of many higher youthful gamers within the league is sort of a praise. Austin hasn’t set the league on fireplace, nevertheless it’s not as if this remark is popping out of left area.
Austin’s 2024 marketing campaign has been a stark improvement compared to last season. He’s bought 452 receiving yards and is proving himself as a deep risk with 16.1 yards per reception. Austin’s simply 40 receiving yards behind Freiermuth, who has the second-most on the crew behind Pickens. Austin additionally has the second-most receiving touchdowns on the roster with 4.
With the Steelers dealing with troublesome defenses within the coming weeks, they’ll want Austin to proceed to step up.
