Trending Now: 07/05/2025 - Calvin Austin Steelers WR2?

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Calvin Austin: Rodgers’ WR2 in Pittsburgh?

ESPN recently ran a feature highlighting the biggest surprise players on each NFL team this offseason (link). For the Steelers, reporter Brooke Pryor quoted Pittsburgh’s wide receivers coach with this telling remark about Calvin Austin:

“I think that ‘2’ spot is all Calvin’s right now.”

After a quiet start to his career, Austin has earned praise for his growth heading into 2025. He wrapped up the 2024–25 season with 36 receptions, 548 yards, and 4 touchdowns. Previously used primarily as a gadget player, Austin’s yards per touch jumped from 5.5 in his second season to an impressive 9.5 last year as he took on more traditional wide receiver duties.

The Steelers’ offense enters 2025 with Aaron Rodgers under center, a quarterback still capable of producing multiple fantasy-relevant pass catchers even at his advanced age. DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith are expected to lead the team in targets, but that third role appears to belong to Austin—at least for now.

So what does this mean for dynasty managers?

I’m not moving future draft capital to go acquire Austin. His price in most leagues likely doesn’t justify the risk of a major breakout. That said, if I can move an aging, proven-but-declining piece like Austin Ekeler or Tyler Lockett to secure a share of Austin in best ball leagues, I’d strongly consider it. In standard dynasty formats, I’m not as motivated to pursue him unless my WR depth is truly poor.

If you already have Austin rostered in dynasty, here’s my take:

• Best Ball: Hold. He could pop for big weeks as Rodgers’ WR2.
• Standard Dynasty: Shop him. Market him as “Rodgers’ WR2” and see if you can extract a second-round rookie pick—or even a pair of thirds.

There are a few positive signs here. Austin essentially lost his rookie season to injury, so 2025 will feel like his true Year 3—a classic breakout year for many receivers. Still, these are the kinds of situations I usually bet against in the long run.

Is this selling too soon? Maybe. But with Metcalf entrenched, Jonnu commanding targets, and Rodgers on a ticking clock, I’m more inclined to cash in on the hype while it’s here.