Mike McCarthy Praises DK Metcalf’s Elite Skill Set as Steelers’ WR Shines

Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy has built a reputation for developing elite wide receivers throughout his NFL career. From Davante Adams in Green Bay to CeeDee Lamb in Dallas, McCarthy has consistently worked with players who dominate the league.

Last season, Adams led the NFL with 14 receiving touchdowns for the Los Angeles Rams, while Lamb recorded his fifth straight season with at least 1,000 receiving yards.

Now, as McCarthy leads the Steelers, he’s turning his attention to DK Metcalf, who has quickly become a key target in Pittsburgh’s offense.

McCarthy: Metcalf’s Skill Set is ‘Top-Notch’

“I don't really like to get into comparables because I've been so blessed to work with so many great players, but also just about DK, his skill set is top-notch.”

During his Tuesday press conference, McCarthy emphasized Metcalf’s physical dominance and route-running versatility. He highlighted the wideout’s ability to score on slants and vertical routes, praising his strength and power.

“When you can take slants and different vertical routes to the house, he's so powerful and he's so strong,” McCarthy said. “So just trying to get to know his strengths and how we can utilize him.”

Building a Route Menu for Metcalf

McCarthy outlined plans to tailor Metcalf’s role in the Steelers’ offense, comparing it to how he’s approached other elite receivers.

“We'll try to build a route menu for him particularly, not different than all of the conversations we've had about receivers because I think it's critical that they play the 1 position, the 2 position, or the 3 position,” he explained. “So, we'll continue to look at that for DK.”

Metcalf’s Impact in Pittsburgh

In his first season with the Steelers in 2025, Metcalf recorded 59 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns. While his 2025 numbers were solid, his best season came in 2020, when he posted career highs with 83 catches for 1,303 yards and 10 touchdowns.

As McCarthy continues to refine Pittsburgh’s offensive scheme, Metcalf’s combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability positions him as a cornerstone of the team’s passing attack.