Steelers A to Z: Diminutive WR Calvin Austin entering big contract year, chance to solidify starting role

Editor’s note: From now until reporting day to training camp at Saint Vincent College, TribLive is running through the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 90-man roster, looking at each player and assessing his outlook for the 2025 season. The breakdown will run in alphabetical order with at least two players each day between June 12 and July 23. Contract data courtesy spotrac.com.

WR CALVIN AUSTIN III

Experience/age: fourth season, 26 years old

Contract status: $1.266 million cap hit, signed through 2025

The past: After missing his entire rookie season, the former fourth-round pick from Memphis has taken incremental steps toward being a viable part of the Steelers’ offense. He had modest production in 2023, catching 17 passes for 180 yards and one touchdown while appearing in all 17 games. He doubled his output last season when he was the team’s No. 3 receiver, catching 36 passes for 548 yards and four touchdowns.

Austin played 53% of the offensive snaps last year, up from 35% in his first full season. He also doubled as the Steelers’ punt returner, and he averaged 10.3 yards per return with one touchdown.

2025 outlook: The 5-foot-9 receiver has a chance to cash in with a big season. He will become a free agent in March 2026, and he could increase his value significantly if he continues to emerge in the Steelers offense either in the slot or as an outside deep threat.

With the George Pickens trade to Dallas, Austin entered organized team activities and minicamp as the No. 2 receiver behind newcomer DK Metcalf. Position coach Zach Azzanni has said that the job is Austin’s to lose. The Steelers continue to scour the remaining free agents in search of another veteran option. A strong camp and preseason by Austin could go a long way in the Steelers maintaining the status quo heading into the regular season.