D.K. Metcalf got his wish. He wanted out of Seattle, he wanted to get a new contract, and he wanted to go to a warm-weather team.
Two out of three isn’t bad.
On Sunday, just days before the start of the new NFL year, Metcalf was dealt to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a second-round pick and a pick swap in Rounds 6 and 7 in the 2025 draft, per multiple reports. His contract details also suggest he’s in line to land a five-year, $150 million contract.
Those numbers certainly suggest he’ll suit up as the team’s No. 1 receiver.
He’s expected to maintain his role as a perimeter “X” receiver, given his natural strength, size, and speed. Metcalf should also lead the Steelers in targets, although it remains uncertain whether he’ll combine with fourth-year receiver George Pickens or replace him. Last year, Metcalf had a five-season low in targets per game with 7.2, despite Seattle having a high pass rate of 62.8% of snaps.
In previous seasons, he averaged anywhere from 7.4 to 8.3 targets per game. However, this could be challenging in Pittsburgh. In 2024, Pickens recorded 7.4 targets per game, with the Steelers typically having lower target averages.
So, it feels safe to say Metcalf’s upside for target volume isn’t great, especially without knowing who will be throwing to him. Naturally, discussions link Metcalf and the Steelers to Russell Wilson. The veteran QB previously played in Pittsburgh, and both were teammates for three years in Seattle. However, if not Wilson, a player like Justin Fields, who has had limited success, could negatively affect Metcalf’s value. Metcalf remains a high-end No. 3 receiver for fantasy managers and could lead the Steelers in targets with around 115.
In Metcalf’s absence, the Seahawks will rely on Jaxon Smith-Njigba and potentially a rookie quarterback, raising concerns over their passing strategy.