Steelers: Veteran WR Hits Waivers Wanting to Join Playoff Contender

Last season, the Minnesota Vikings released Adam Thielen to waivers on Dec. 1, as the veteran wide receiver hoped for an opportunity for a playoff chase with a new team.

The Pittsburgh Steelers claimed him off waivers the next day. Thielen appeared in five games, started three, and recorded 11 receptions for 117 yards for a Steelers team that would win the AFC North.

The Steelers stood pat at the trade deadline on Tuesday, opting not to trade with the Indianapolis Colts for Josh Downs, who joined the Kansas City Chiefs. Another receiver who received buzz before the deadline is hitting waivers, and Pittsburgh could make a key signing as it makes a push to win the AFC North.

Per the Eagles, Hollywood Brown is headed to waivers. The move will allow Brown to join a playoff competitor, and Philadelphia will get some much-needed camp relief as it reloads for the 2027 campaign amid a 2-7 start to the season.

Brown had a solid season with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025, catching 49 passes for 587 yards and five touchdowns. Brown, 29, signed a one-year deal with the Eagles in March. He only has five receptions for 63 yards this season. Even amid injuries to receivers DaVonta Smith and Dontayvion Wicks, Brown has struggled to secure targets. (Quarterback Jalen Hurts hasn't played since Oct. 11 due to health issues.)

Brown, a first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2019, could be an interesting addition for the Steelers. Pittsburgh has been without Michael Pittman Jr. since Week 4, as the receiver is battling a foot injury.

DK Metcalf is the leading receiver on the Steelers. He has 33 receptions for 378 yards and one touchdown. Running back Jaylen Warren is their second-leading receiver with 25 catches for 294 yards and one score. Rookie Germie Bernard has 32 receptions for 285 yards and one touchdown.

It's Pittsburgh's tight ends who have made a difference in the red zone. Darnell Washington has three touchdown receptions, and Pat Freiermuth has three touchdowns.

Brown wouldn't be expected to become the Steelers’ WR1 if they claim him off waivers. But he'd make a great WR3 option for quarterback Aaron Rodgers as the Steelers look to make a push to win the AFC North and make a playoff run.

Pittsburgh has a big game on Sunday in its battle for the division. The winner of the contest between the Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals will take the lead in the AFC