Steelers’ DK Metcalf Speaks out on Lack of Targets From Aaron Rodgers
The Pittsburgh Steelers became known as a team with diva wide receivers. Players such as Antonio Brown, George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and other wideouts complained during their Pittsburgh tenures either about too few of opportunities, money or both. But that’s not DK Metcalf this season.
When asked about the lack of targets he’s received during his first campaign with the Steelers, Metcalf made it clear his priority is one thing — winning.
“Y’all may get frustrated with that [expletive],” Metcalf told reporters Wednesday. “We don’t. We just trying to win.”
Through eight games, Metcalf has received 47 targets this season. That’s an average of 5.875 per game.
Last season with the Seattle Seahawks, Metcalf posted 7.2 targets per contest. In 2023, which was the last year Metcalf made the Pro Bowl, he had about 7.4 targets per game.
Behind the reduction in targets, the 27-year-old has fewer receptions and receiving yards per game this season as well.
Why DK Metcalf Has Received Fewer Targets Per Game With Steelers
It’s a little surprising that Metcalf has seen such a drastic decline in targets. He’s, by far, the most dangerous pass-catcher on the Steelers roster. Playing opposite Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson, pundits expected Metcalf to see a ton of opportunities in 2025.
However, quarterback Aaron Rodgers targets tight ends nearly 10 times per game. Plus, the Steelers just don’t throw that often or run very many plays.
Entering Week 10, Pittsburgh’s offense is ranked 24th in total pass attempts. Furthermore, the Steelers are 31st in total offensive plays.
That doesn’t give the Steelers a lot of opportunity to target their most dangerous pass-catcher. Fortunately, Metcalf has been efficient.
Metcalf is averaging 16.1 yards per reception, which is the second-best mark of his seven-year NFL career. He’s also already scored five touchdowns, which matches his total from 2024.
Metcalf has more than twice as many receiving yards than any other Steelers pass-catcher after Week 9. He also has 13 more targets and nine more receptions.
So while he’s not getting a lot of chances, it’s still significantly more than anyone else catching passes in Pittsburgh this year.
Metcalf Putting Team Ahead of Individual Achievement
Steelers Depot’s Ross McCorkle called Metcalf’s answer to the question about his lack of targets a “borderline programmed response.” But after about a decade of “me-first” receivers, it’s a breath of fresh air in Pittsburgh.
Metcalf is clearly the top receiver with the Steelers. So if he has a team-first attitude, the other wideouts on the team will too.
Metcalf also recognizes that his teammates work hard, and they want the ball more too in Pittsburgh’s offense that, right now, just simply isn’t running a lot of plays.
“Once you put in the work, and the time during the offseason, and even during the week, training camp, you gotta respect the guys who are getting targets,” Metcalf said. “From the moment that I’ve gotten here, everybody’s worked their butts off.
“So everybody rightfully deserves a shot at the ball.”
At his current pace, Metcalf is on track to register 62 catches, 992 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. Last season, Metcalf also had 992 yards in 15 games.
His previous career high in touchdowns is 12 from the 2021 season.
Maxx Crosby Defends Taylor Swift, Takes a Stand Against Kim Kardashian’s Criticism
Maxx Crosby, the star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, has become an unexpected hero for Swifties after standing up to defend Taylor Swift against Kim Kardashian’s criticism of the singer’s dance moves in her music video for
The controversy erupted when Kardashian publicly mocked Swift’s choreography in the video, quickly igniting a social media firestorm. Swift’s fans, known as Swifties, swiftly mobilized, expressing their discontent with Kardashian’s remarks. Amid the growing backlash, Crosby took to social media to speak out in support of Swift, calling Kardashian’s comments "unwarranted" and "unnecessary."
“It’s disappointing to see someone of Kim Kardashian’s stature criticize Taylor Swift, who’s not only an incredible artist but a role model to so many,” Crosby tweeted. “There’s no need for the negativity, especially when it comes to something as subjective as art and self-expression. Taylor’s dance moves are iconic, and it’s time we respect her creative choices.”
Crosby’s tweet immediately captured the attention of Swift’s fans, who were thrilled to see him speak out in defense of the pop star, especially given the high-profile nature of the feud between Swift and Kardashian. Swifties, many of whom already admired Crosby for his athletic talent, were ecstatic to see him take a stand in this celebrity drama.
The timing of Crosby’s response couldn’t have been better, as the online debate had been spiraling out of control, with Kardashian’s comments fueling a storm of negative reactions. Crosby’s intervention helped calm the chaos, with many fans expressing their gratitude for his support.
“Maxx Crosby just won over Swifties everywhere,” one fan wrote on Twitter. “Finally, someone standing up for Taylor in a world full of unnecessary drama.”
The feud between Taylor Swift and Kim Kardashian dates back to their highly publicized conflict involving Kanye West, and Kardashian’s recent comment only seemed to deepen the divide. However, Crosby’s defense of Swift has offered a fresh perspective, reminding fans of the importance of standing up for what’s right, no matter the celebrity.
“I’ve always been a fan of Taylor’s music, and her work is beyond critique,” Crosby continued in a follow-up tweet. “She puts her heart and soul into everything she does, and the last thing we should be doing is tearing her down.”
Swifties flooded social media to show their appreciation for Crosby’s comments, making it clear that his support had earned him a special place in their hearts. His words have solidified his status not only as a beloved athlete but also as someone who understands the importance of kindness and respect, even in the face of celebrity drama.
Crosby’s defense of Swift has reminded fans that standing up for what’s right — and supporting one another — is far more important than fueling the flames of negativity. In a world that often seems dominated by celebrity conflicts, Crosby’s powerful words have provided a welcome breath of fresh air.
