Steelers agree to terms with veteran WR Van Jefferson
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On a day of a public changing of the guard at quarterback, the Pittsburgh Steelers began to reassemble the weapons available to new passer Russell Wilson.
The Steelers agreed to terms with veteran wide receiver Van Jefferson to a one-year contract, a league source confirmed late Friday. A five-year NFL veteran, Jefferson has 113 catches and 10 touchdowns over 61 NFL games since entering the league as a second-round pick of the Los Angeles Rams in 2020.
The 6-1, 200-pound Jefferson has lined up both outside and from the slot throughout his NFL career. This past October, he was dealt to the Atlanta Falcons in an exchange of late-round draft picks.
Jefferson likely was signed to compete for a role as the Steelers’ fourth or fifth wide receiver. The only returning players at the position with appreciable pro experience are George Pickens and Calvin Austin III. While the Steelers envision Pickens stepping into a role as an unquestioned WR1, Austin had 17 catches for 180 yards during his first NFL action in 2023.
The Steelers over the past week have traded Diontae Johnson and released Allen Robinson, leaving the position room relatively barren. They are still expected to add receivers via free agency and/or the draft.
Jefferson had 20 catches for 209 yards and no touchdowns in 2023.