The name "Calvin Austin III" is currently trending across social media and sports news platforms, generating excitement among fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers. With more than 2,000 searches in a short span, the buzz around Austin is largely due to his recent standout performances on the field. This article delves into why Calvin Austin III is making waves, his role within the Steelers' wide receiver unit, and how he fits into the team's evolving offensive strategy.
Who is Calvin Austin III?
Calvin Austin III is a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his speed and ability to stretch the field. A Memphis Tigers alum, Austin was drafted by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Now in his second season, he’s starting to carve out a niche for himself in an offense that is still working to find its rhythm. While much of the attention has been focused on star receiver George Pickens, Austin is quietly making a case for more playing time and greater responsibility.
Recent Highlight: A Game-Changing 55-Yard Touchdown
One of the key reasons Austin has become a trending topic is his recent 55-yard touchdown catch in a game against the Chicago Bears. In this memorable play, Steelers’ quarterback Justin Fields connected with Austin for a deep pass that resulted in a huge score. The play, which was featured in an article titled “Watch: Justin Fields Hits Calvin Austin III For Huge 55-Yard Touchdown”, gave the Steelers a commanding two-score lead and showcased Austin’s ability to make explosive plays.
This moment was a turning point in the game and a statement of Austin’s potential. His speed and route-running were on full display as he created separation from the defender and secured the ball for one of the longest offensive plays of the game. For Austin, it was an opportunity to demonstrate that he can be more than just a role player in the Steelers' offense.
Mike Tomlin’s Confidence in Non-Pickens Receivers
Despite the fanfare surrounding George Pickens, the Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin has been vocal in his support for the team’s other wide receivers, including Austin. In a recent article titled “Keep Watching: Despite Limited Production, Tomlin 'Pleased' With Performance Of Non-Pickens Receivers”, Tomlin expressed satisfaction with the contributions of players like Calvin Austin III, even though their statistical production might not reflect their overall impact.
Tomlin’s comments indicate that the coaching staff sees potential in Austin and others beyond the numbers. The Steelers are still figuring out how to best use their receiving corps, but Austin's ability to make big plays in key moments is clearly something the team values. His 55-yard touchdown is just one example of how he can provide a spark, even if his overall production hasn’t been through the roof just yet.
The Steelers’ Ongoing Search for the Right Wide Receiver Mix
The Steelers are still working to find the right combination of wide receivers to complement George Pickens, who has been their primary target. An article from TribLive, “Steelers still trying to find right formula at wide receiver beyond George Pickens”, highlights the fact that the team is experimenting with different players to see who can step up and relieve some of the pressure on Pickens.
Calvin Austin III is emerging as a key candidate to fill that role. While Diontae Johnson has struggled with his new team in Carolina, Austin has been steadily improving. His speed and versatility offer the Steelers a valuable asset that can create mismatches against opposing defenses. As Pittsburgh continues to search for the right formula, Austin’s recent performances suggest he could become a more regular contributor in the passing game.
What’s Next for Calvin Austin III?
Austin’s recent success is just the beginning. His 55-yard touchdown was a glimpse of what he can bring to the Steelers’ offense when given the opportunity. As the team continues to experiment with its receiving options, Austin could find himself getting more targets and playing time, especially if he continues to deliver in crucial moments.
Coach Mike Tomlin’s endorsement of the non-Pickens receivers, combined with Austin’s ability to make big plays, suggests that he will continue to be a vital part of the Steelers’ offensive plans. Whether or not he can maintain this momentum remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising for the young receiver.
Conclusion
Calvin Austin III is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and for good reason. His combination of speed, playmaking ability, and the trust he's earned from the coaching staff positions him as a potential breakout star in the Steelers’ offense. While George Pickens remains the focal point, Austin’s recent performances show that he too can be a game-changer. As the season progresses, expect to hear Austin’s name more frequently as he continues to prove his worth in the NFL.