The Pittsburgh Steelers, long known for their fearsome defenses, have flipped the script in recent years, relying on their offense to generate wins. The team ranked second in yards-per-game (411.1), yards-per-play (6.2) and first downs per game (23.7) and seventh in points (27.2) last year. Script = flipped.
Wide receiver Antonio Brown and running back Le'Veon Bell have enjoyed breakout seasons over the last two years. Now, it may be slot receiver Markus Wheaton's turn.
"That's where a lot of balls are thrown, short routes," Wheaton, who stands 5-foot-11 and weighs in at 182 pounds, said. "I think those guys on the inside do end up having a lot of catches. Definitely a lot of catches intrigues everybody. Everybody wants the ball."
Wheaton may not yet be at the level of New England's Julian Edelman or Green Bay's Randall Cobb when it comes to slot savvy. But Pittsburgh's offense took a noticeable step forward over the last eight games of the season after Wheaton, Martavius Bryant and Lance Moore saw increased playing time. Ben Roethlisberger averaged 322 passing yards per game over that stretch.
Rookie third-rounder Sammie Coates will compete with Wheaton for snaps. But Wheaton's 53 catches for 644 yards and two touchdowns in just his second season last year stands out as a big marker of potential. With Brown drawing the attention of safeties, Wheaton will have the opportunity to feast on intermediate routes.
"The middle will be wide open. That will be a benefit for me," he said.
Wheaton may not be the headlines grabber in Pittsburgh, but he is a viable candidate for a breakout season this year. Don't say you weren't warned.
