The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a significant push to revamp their wide receiver corps as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. On June 5, 2025, the Steelers are set to host free-agent wide receiver Gabe Davis for a visit, signaling a potential move to fill the void left by the recent trade of George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys.
Davis, 26, brings a compelling mix of size, speed, and playoff experience to the table. His career began with a strong four-year stint at the Buffalo Bills, where he emerged as a dynamic playmaker. Notably, Davis made headlines during the 2021 postseason, catching eight passes for 201 yards and four touchdowns in an intense 42-36 overtime loss against the Kansas City Chiefs. This performance cemented his reputation as a clutch performer capable of changing the course of high-stakes games.
Following his time with Buffalo, Davis signed a lucrative three-year, $39 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2024 offseason. Expectations were high, but unfortunately, his tenure with the Jaguars was marred by a knee injury that limited him to just 10 games. During those appearances, Davis caught 20 of 42 passes for 239 yards, averaging 12.0 yards per reception with two touchdowns. The torn meniscus he suffered forced him to miss the remainder of the season, and the Jaguars ultimately decided to release him in May 2025.
Jacksonville’s decision to move on from Davis was influenced by several factors. The Jaguars had invested in young talent, notably drafting former Colorado wide receiver Travis Hunter to pair alongside Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, Dyami Brown, and Parker Washington. Given this depth, Davis was projected to be only the fifth receiver on the depth chart, a role that did not justify his hefty contract. Despite his release, the Jaguars are still on the hook for a $20.3 million dead cap hit spread over the next two seasons—$5.7 million in 2025 and $14.6 million in 2026—due to the post-June 1st release designation. This financial arrangement means Davis could join another team without commanding a large salary cap charge for that team in 2025.
For the Steelers, this situation presents an enticing opportunity. They are reportedly responsible for only $11.5 million of Davis’ 2025 salary, making him a bargain acquisition for a player with his physical traits and upside. Pittsburgh’s wide receiver room is in flux after trading away George Pickens shortly after the 2025 NFL draft. Pickens’ departure left a glaring hole in the Steelers’ offense, one that cannot be filled by just anyone. Veteran Robert Woods remains on the roster, but his ability to consistently perform at a high level is uncertain.
Adding Davis would provide the Steelers with a much-needed vertical threat and red-zone target. Known for his elite size and speed, Davis fits the Steelers’ traditional preference for physical receivers who can stretch the field. This move also aligns with the team's broader strategy of building a competitive offense around their new quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. Earlier in the offseason, Pittsburgh made a splash by acquiring DK Metcalf, another big-bodied wide receiver. The potential addition of Davis would give Rodgers a formidable duo of targets to work with, enhancing the team’s offensive arsenal.
While Davis’ production dipped during his time with the Jaguars, his career totals remain impressive. Over 74 regular-season games with Buffalo and Jacksonville, he has amassed 183 receptions for 2,969 yards and 29 touchdowns. His best season came in 2022, when he caught 48 passes for 836 yards and seven touchdowns, underscoring his ability to be a consistent contributor when healthy and in the right system.
The Steelers’ interest in Davis is also a reflection of their cautious approach in the offseason. Reports indicate that the team checked in on Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith but does not plan to pursue a trade. This suggests Pittsburgh is prioritizing budget-friendly acquisitions rather than high-cost, splashy moves. Davis, with his salary cap-friendly contract and potential upside, fits neatly into this philosophy.
As the AFC North remains one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, the Steelers cannot afford to miss on key offensive pieces. Gabe Davis’ visit is more than just a routine roster move—it could mark the beginning of a strategic rebuild of the Steelers’ receiving corps. If Davis can return to his form from earlier in his career, Pittsburgh could be adding a vital weapon to support Aaron Rodgers and keep pace in a challenging division.
With the visit scheduled for June 5, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh as they evaluate whether Gabe Davis can be the answer to their wide receiver needs. The Steelers are moving fast, and the addition of Davis could be a pivotal step in shaping the team’s offensive identity for the 2025 season and beyond.
