The Pittsburgh Steelers addressed their wide receiver need ahead of the NFL trade deadline by acquiring veteran Mike Williams from the New York Jets. However, Williams is set to become a free agent in 2025, which means the Steelers could be in the market for another wideout next offseason. With that in mind, Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department predicts that Pittsburgh will target Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Chris Godwin, who is entering the final year of his four-year, $60 million contract.
The Steelers are likely to face competition for Godwin’s services, as he is among several high-profile veteran receivers potentially available in free agency, including Stefon Diggs, Amari Cooper, and DeAndre Hopkins. While Godwin stands out for his ability to excel in the slot, his skill set could complement Pittsburgh’s receiving corps, especially when paired with George Pickens, who thrives on the outside.
However, there are concerns that could complicate the Steelers’ pursuit of Godwin. The 29-year-old has dealt with significant injuries in recent years, including a torn ACL in 2021. Adding to the uncertainty, Godwin suffered a dislocated ankle during the 2024 season, which could potentially sideline him for the remainder of the year, raising red flags about his long-term durability.
Another consideration for the Steelers is their existing investment in third-round pick Roman Wilson, who the team hopes will emerge as a long-term solution in the slot. If Wilson develops as expected, the Steelers might be less inclined to bring in a slot receiver like Godwin, especially given the uncertainty surrounding his injury status and the fact that Wilson could take on a more prominent role in the offense.
If the Steelers do target Godwin, it may signal a shift in their plans, either due to a lack of faith in Wilson’s development or a desire to deploy Godwin more frequently on the outside. With his injury history and the competition for his services, Godwin could be a more affordable option for Pittsburgh, but whether he fits into their long-term strategy remains uncertain
