Premium NFL wide receivers can be inexpensive, despite what agent tells ESPN

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ESPN’s Dan Graziano this week traced an exploding market for the top-paid NFL wide receivers. Equally fascinating is the flip side of that story.

The Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t traded for a receiver since 2003, haven’t drafted one in the first round since 2006, and haven’t overpaid one in forever. Instead, in 11 of the past 15 years, they’ve taken a second- or third-round WR.

George Pickens #14 of the Pittsburgh Steelers makes a catch for a 26-yard touchdown reception as Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks defends in the first quarter during a preseason game at Acrisure Stadium on August 13, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)

This year’s bargain is George Pickens, the league-wide rookie sensation of training camp, chosen 52nd overall in the second round. Pickens combines with Chase Claypool (second round, 2020) and Diontae Johnson (third round, 2019) to give the Steelers a top-5 threesome. They fill out their WR room with fourth-round rookie Calvin Austin III and inexpensive veterans Gunner Olszewski and Miles Boykin. Aggregate cap charge for all six: $15 million.

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Pittsburgh avoids the risky $20 million-plus receiver with this philosophy: Wide-open college offenses are producing NFL-ready receivers at a staggering rate. Nothing is more cost-efficient than starters playing on rookie contracts. Keep drafting them, keep churning, don’t fall in love with them. Outstanding quality at great prices is available every draft in Rounds 2 and 3.

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