Pittman Jr. Tabbed as Steelers’ Non‑QB MVP by CBS Sports

With the official kickoff of the 2026 NFL season less than a month away, the Pittsburgh Steelers are nearing the point where they will learn whether an offseason defined by sweeping changes can translate into on‑field success.

Among their most significant moves was the acquisition of former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who amassed more than 5,000 receiving yards across six seasons with the franchise. Now stepping into a new system in Pittsburgh, Pittman arrives with understandably high expectations for his impact in 2026.

In his latest piece for CBS Sports, analyst Tyler Sullivan identified Pittman as one of his AFC non‑quarterback MVP candidates. While Sullivan could have selected WR1 D.K. Metcalf, he argued that quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ preference for shorter, rhythm‑based routes positions Pittman as a natural fit. As a result, Sullivan believes Pittman has a strong chance to emerge as Rodgers’ primary target this season.

"Pittman comes in as not only a clear-cut second option for Aaron Rodgers, but the veteran quarterback (who averaged just 6.7 yards per attempt in 2025) could pepper the veteran on shorter routes. It wouldn't be surprising to see Pittman (who has the sixth-most receptions in the NFL over the last four seasons) lead the Steelers in targets."

Given head coach Mike McCarthy’s commitment to a West Coast framework, Pittman’s proficiency in short‑to‑intermediate routes could position him as Rodgers’ primary option.

Even in a season where his overall yardage dipped, Pittman still produced a career‑high seven touchdowns and posted a receiving success rate of 57.7 percent last season — the second‑best mark of his career.