DK Metcalf

Last year was the first time D.K. Metcalf hasn't finished as a top 24 wide receiver in fantasy points per game (WR30). Metcalf dealt with shoulder and knee injuries last year, which could also be contributing to his fall off. His per-route metrics don't paint a rosier picture, as he was 78th in separation, 89th in route win rate, and 64th in first downs per route run (per Fantasy Points Data). Yes, he did rank 36th in target share, 35th in yards per route run, and 20th in receiving yards per game, so it's not all doom and gloom surrounding Metcalf. There are reasons to believe in a bounceback here. He'll be the unquestioned top option in the Pittsburgh passing attack, which should help his weekly volume floor and ceiling. Aaron Rodgers isn't returning to his former glory, but if he can be serviceable, Metcalf should pay off as a volume-fueled WR2/3.

DK Metcalf joins the Steelers as their new No. 1 WR after finishing 2024 as the WR32 (WR33 per game) with 992 yards and a career-low 5 TDs in 15 games. However, before a knee injury in Week 7, Metcalf was off to a scorching start - ranking top-5 in targets, yards, and air yards. Now in Pittsburgh's run-heavy Arthur Smith offense, target share won't be an issue, but overall passing volume/efficiency may be. Even with Aaron Rodgers at QB, this offense will have a low pass rate. Metcalf's fantasy ceiling hinges on red-zone usage and big plays. The opportunity is there, but his 2025 value depends entirely on the Steelers' offensive competency with the 41-year-old QB under center.