The Pittsburgh Steelers plan to sign wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, according to ESPN sources. While the move may not happen immediately, the signing will reunite Valdes-Scantling with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, with whom he played in Green Bay from 2018 to 2021. Initially, Valdes-Scantling is expected to join the Steelers’ practice squad following a successful workout with the team.
Steelers Add Valdes-Scantling to Bolster Receiver Depth Ahead of Trade Deadline
This addition provides depth to the Steelers’ wide receiver group, which has struggled with consistent production beyond their leader, DK Metcalf. Metcalf leads the team with 461 receiving yards, 17.1 yards per catch, and five touchdowns. Behind him, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson have contributed intermittently due to injuries, leaving the team reliant on tight ends and running backs like Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell to supplement the passing game.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling (NFL)The signing comes just a week before the NFL trade deadline, giving the Steelers flexibility to pursue additional offensive playmakers if necessary. The move reflects the team’s efforts to strengthen its passing options and add more depth to the roster.
Valdes-Scantling Brings Experience and Connection with Rodgers Amid Steelers’ Defensive Setbacks
Valdes-Scantling most recently played for the San Francisco 49ers but was released after an injury settlement following a calf injury. Previously, he had stints with Kansas City, New Orleans, and Buffalo, after a successful tenure in Green Bay that included a league-leading 20.9 yards per reception in 2020 and 13 career touchdowns. His experience and prior connection with Rodgers are seen as valuable assets for the Steelers.
Meanwhile, the Steelers face setbacks on defense as safety DeShon Elliott is expected to miss the rest of the season due to a leg injury. Although his ACL is intact, a return this season is considered unlikely, adding urgency for the team to reinforce its roster on both sides of the ball.
