PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again in search of reinforcements at the wide receiver position after an underwhelming 2024 season. With free agency approaching, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Christian Kirk has emerged as a possible target for Pittsburgh.
According to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers were engaged in talks with the Jaguars about acquiring Kirk before he suffered a season-ending injury just before the trade deadline. Now that Kirk is healthy, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ray Fittipaldo believes the Steelers could revisit their interest in the talented wideout.
“There was that report that Gerry Dulac had before the trade deadline that Kirk was going to be their target if he didn’t get hurt,” Fittipaldo said during an interview on 93.7 The Fan. “Contractually, I think he might have to get cut first by the Jaguars before he becomes a free agent. But if the Steelers liked him in October, they’re probably going to like him in March once the Jaguars make that call.”
Kirk, known for his speed and route-running ability, would provide a much-needed boost to the Steelers’ receiving unit, which struggled to produce consistent playmakers last season. While Mike Williams was added midseason, the team still lacked a true difference-maker alongside emerging talent Brian Thomas Jr.
If Kirk becomes available, the Steelers could sign him to solidify their passing attack. However, questions remain about who will be throwing him the ball, as the team continues to weigh its quarterback options between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields.
With free agency and the NFL Draft approaching, Pittsburgh must decide whether to invest in a veteran like Kirk or focus on adding fresh talent through the draft. Either way, improving the receiving corps is a priority as the Steelers look to rebound from a disappointing end to their 2024 campaign.
