JUST IN: 1,000-Yard Starter WR And Former Dallas Cowboys Star Is Projected As Landing Spot For The Steelers
Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup, known for his ability to make plays over long distances, is rumored to be a potential target for the AFC’s Pittsburgh Steelers during this offseason.
Dallas Robinson from Pro Football Network suggests that the Steelers could be an ideal landing spot for Gallup in this year’s free agency, especially since the team needs to fill the WR No. 2 spot following the departure of Diontae Johnson earlier in the year. The ongoing speculation about a potential trade sending Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans has also influenced the market value for wide receivers.
To address their immediate need at the receiver position, the Steelers could acquire Gallup as a short-term solution while they evaluate their options for the upcoming draft. It’s expected that any new addition to the team would require some time to establish chemistry and become a dependable target for their recently acquired quarterback Russell Wilson.
The recent moves by the Steelers, including the acquisition of Justin Fields and the signing of Wilson to a one-year contract, have generated excitement in Pittsburgh. The team has been active in bolstering their receiving corps through free agency this year.
Gallup’s addition to the Steelers’ offense would offer a perimeter threat similar in size to Johnson, potentially alleviating the need to select a wide receiver early in the draft. Despite a decline in performance since his 1,000-yard season in 2019, Gallup’s history of injury struggles, particularly since his ACL tear in 2022, raises some concerns.
There is optimism that a fresh start with a new team could help Gallup regain his form, although he may not be at the peak of his career. Working with Wilson could reignite Gallup’s game and inject some competitiveness into the team’s quarterback situation.
Wide receiver Michael Gallup, who has achieved a 1,000-yard season, is being connected to the AFC’s Pittsburgh Steelers, potentially providing an instant enhancement to the team.
Despite Gallup not performing at his peak, he could still be considered the second-best option after George Pickens. None of the other wide receivers on the Steelers roster have come close to Gallup’s level of production, with none surpassing 400 receiving yards like Gallup has. In Dallas, Gallup faced limited playing time due to the prominence of CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson as primary targets.
Nevertheless, with head coach Mike Tomlin incorporating Russell Wilson into the mix to consistently target Gallup downfield, the Steelers could see increased success in reaching the end zone.
Throughout his time with the Cowboys, Gallup has recorded 266 receptions for 3,744 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging 14.1 yards per catch. The Steelers have been active in the wide receiver market, bringing in Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins. However, these signings appear to be for depth purposes, as both players have yet to establish themselves as reliable options for the WR No. 2 position. In the 2023 season, Jefferson and Watkins combined for only 331 receiving yards, indicating they are not yet ready to step into starting roles.
Reports suggest that the Steelers may reconsider the presence of Watkins and Jefferson on the final roster. Should these players not make the cut, it would make sense for Gallup to join the Steelers, benefiting both the player and the team.
Other Potential Wide Receivers
Certain reports suggest that the Pittsburgh Steelers have been associated with Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd. Nonetheless, the chances of the Bengals trading Boyd to a division rival seem slim.
Instead, a more realistic option would involve acquiring either Michael Gallup or Odell Beckham Jr., both of whom are available free agents. Beckham, being an experienced veteran and not at the peak of his career, could be a cost-effective option for the team.
Given the Steelers’ limited budget, pursuing a player like Boyd may not be feasible, making a move for Beckham a more viable choice. Despite no longer being in his prime, Beckham delivered a solid performance in the 2023 season with the Baltimore Ravens before his release.
