Steelers Add Aaron Rodgers’ Top Target Marquez Valdes-Scantling to Practice Squad
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move to strengthen their wide receiver corps by signing veteran Marquez Valdes-Scantling to their practice squad. This decision comes just before the NFL trade deadline.
Valdes-Scantling’s Impressive Career Highlights
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, 31, has an extensive background in professional football. Over his eight-year career, he has recorded:
- 209 receptions
- 3,606 receiving yards
- 20 touchdowns
He is also a two-time Super Bowl champion, having won titles with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Connection with Aaron Rodgers
Valdes-Scantling has a notable connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The two played together for four seasons in Green Bay, where Valdes-Scantling enjoyed his most productive year in 2020. That season, he achieved:
- 33 receptions
- 690 receiving yards
- 6 touchdowns
- Led the league with 20.9 yards per catch
Rodgers praised Valdes-Scantling as one of his favorite teammates, expressing confidence in his abilities. “He can still run,” Rodgers stated, referring to Valdes-Scantling’s potential to contribute significantly to the Steelers.
Recent Performance and Team Fit
In 2024, Valdes-Scantling caught 17 passes for 385 yards and four touchdowns in just eight games with the New Orleans Saints, averaging an impressive 22.6 yards per reception.
Before joining the Steelers, he signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks but was released during roster cuts. He then spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, where his tenure was cut short due to a calf injury that placed him on injured reserve.
Current Steelers Wide Receiver Landscape
With the addition of Valdes-Scantling, the Steelers are addressing a critical position. DK Metcalf stands as the team’s primary wide receiver, leading in:
- Routes run: 248
- Targets: 47
- Receptions: 29
Calvin Austin III is positioned as the second receiver, despite missing games due to injury. He has:
- 157 routes run
- 29 targets
- 19 receptions
The depth chart includes Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek, and Scotty Miller, each contributing but still vying for consistent roles.
Outlook for the Steelers
Valdes-Scantling’s addition provides injury insurance and enhances the team’s depth. The Steelers management will need to evaluate if another wide receiver could significantly upgrade their roster.
Given General Manager Omar Khan’s proactive approach, the signing of Valdes-Scantling may not deter the team from exploring further acquisitions. They aim to ensure they have the best possible lineup as the season progresses.
