The Pittsburgh Steelers are only through their first two days of training camp, so it would be unwise to draw any major conclusions. After a long offseason, though, it is fun to talk about who is standing out and who hasn’t lived up to expectations. A key standout for the Steelers so far has been new wide receiver Van Jefferson. Although Jefferson just came to Pittsburgh this offseason, he entered camp as the favorite to win the Steelers WR2 job. Through two days of camp, he is further cementing himself as the frontrunner for that spot.
Van Jefferson Already Cementing Himself as Steelers’ WR2
Strong Showing at Training Camp
On Thursday, the first day of training camp, Jefferson showcased a strong connection with Justin Fields, who was taking QB1 snaps in place of an injured/resting Russell Wilson. The two connected on a deep pass down the sideline, a pitch-and-catch that made the rounds on social media.
Justin Fields with a SEED to Van Jefferson 🎯#PMSLive #HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/6POvDPMhh4
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) July 25, 2024
It’s not like this was some kind of miraculous throw; there was no pressure on Fields and Jefferson was wide open downfield. But it was still nice to see Fields showcase his talented arm and Jefferson haul in a big reception.
Jefferson’s production continued into Friday. Although it didn’t get circulated on social media, he reportedly beat Steelers standout cornerback Joey Porter Jr. for a touchdown. It’s not often for Porter to get beat in man-to-man coverage. Again, it’s Day 2 of training camp, but it’s a welcome sign to see Van Jefferson already contributing.
Steelers come from a condensed set and Van Jefferson beats Joey Porter Jr. to the back pylon for a touchdown on a corner route.
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) July 26, 2024
Will It Be Enough?
If the Steelers season started tomorrow, Van Jefferson would be the starting WR2 opposite George Pickens. That was clear coming into camp and he is making it more clear with his strong showing at camp. However, the Steelers season does not start tomorrow. They have been very active in the trade market for a wide receiver, trying to land a truly elite counterpart for George Pickens.
Pittsburgh doesn’t have their eyes set on a WR2 to pair with Pickens. Take it a step further. The Steelers reportedly believe they will soon be able to complete a trade that would land them either Brandon Aiyuk, Tyreek Hill, or D.K. Metcalf. Metcalf and especially Aiyuk have been mentioned as possible trade targets for the Steelers throughout the offseason. Hill is a new addition to the list, though. Any of the three would instantly become Pittsburgh’s top dog at wide receiver, with Pickens sliding down into the WR2 role.
For Now, It Doesn’t Matter
Of course, until a trade is finalized, the Steelers can’t just operate under the assumption that they will be able to make a deal. They need to work with the players currently on their roster and at training camp. Van Jefferson is one of those players, and he is doing everything in his power to secure his spot. If no trade is made, Jefferson will enter the season as the clear choice to start opposite Pickens. If a trade is made and a star is acquired, then Jefferson will still be able to secure himself a respectable snap count as WR3 with a continued strong showing at training camp.
Main Photo: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports
