PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move to bolster their wide receiver corps by signing veteran Robert Woods to a one-year deal worth $2 million, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. This addition comes as the Steelers look to navigate a pivotal offseason, especially as they sort out their quarterback situation.
Woods, who is entering his 13th season in the NFL, spent the last two years with the Houston Texans. Last season, he appeared in 15 games, starting four, and finished with a career-low 203 receiving yards without scoring a touchdown. Despite this dip in production, the Steelers are hoping Woods can provide a veteran presence and contribute to a young receiving group that includes standout talents like DK Metcalf and George Pickens, both of whom are expected to lead the charge this season.
Originally drafted by the Buffalo Bills as the 41st overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, Woods has built a solid career with 683 receptions for over 8,200 yards and 38 touchdowns. His best years came with the Los Angeles Rams in 2018 and 2019, where he recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, showcasing his ability as a reliable target.
“It's not a matter of what happens out on the field or if I play right away, it's about getting better and it's about learning,” Woods said, expressing his eagerness to integrate into the Steelers’ system. “I just cannot wait to delve into this situation and to really give my all to this team.”
Woods’ signing comes at a time when the Steelers are also considering their options at quarterback. The team has been linked to former Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers, who remains undecided about his future. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin commented on the potential for Rodgers to join the team, stating, “That's certainly a possibility. We've had really productive talks with him.”
While the situation with Rodgers remains uncertain, the Steelers did draft Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round of the NFL Draft. Howard had an impressive college career, throwing for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns last season, leading the Buckeyes to a national championship. Howard is expected to compete with Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson for the starting position.
The addition of Woods is seen as a strategic move to ease the transition for whoever ends up under center for the Steelers this fall. With Woods known for his blocking and team-first attitude, he is anticipated to play a situational role, bringing leadership to a young wide receiver room that also features Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Scotty Miller, and Ben Skowronek.
Despite not being the top target, Woods’ experience and versatility will be invaluable as he can play both outside and in the slot, logging 282 snaps as an outside receiver and 115 in the slot last season with the Texans. His ability to adapt to different roles will be crucial as the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season.
The Steelers did not draft a wide receiver during the recent NFL Draft, highlighting their confidence in the current group, bolstered by Woods’ presence. With Metcalf and Pickens leading the way, Woods will slot in as a complementary piece, providing depth and experience.
As the offseason progresses, the Steelers will continue to fine-tune their roster. The team has already made some moves, including the reported releases of NT Montravius Adams and S Ryan Watts, the latter of whom is medically retiring due to a neck injury. These changes reflect the Steelers' commitment to reshaping their roster as they aim for a successful 2025 season.
Woods’ signing marks a new chapter in his career as he looks to prove he still has plenty left in the tank. Although he hasn’t reached the 1,000-yard mark since 2019, the Steelers are optimistic that with the right circumstances, Woods can still be a productive member of their offense.
As the team gears up for training camp in July, all eyes will be on how Woods integrates into the Steelers’ offensive scheme and how the quarterback situation unfolds. With the potential addition of a high-profile quarterback like Rodgers, the Steelers are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
The excitement in Pittsburgh is palpable as fans look forward to seeing how this new roster will perform. With Woods in the mix, the Steelers are building a formidable receiving corps that could be instrumental in their quest for success in the 2025 NFL season.
