Steelers Eyeing Denzel Boston as Next Big Wide Receiver

Local beat writer predicts Pittsburgh will target physical 'combat-catch' receiver in NFL Draft

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:46pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, their body broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes in a muted color palette, conceptually representing the Steelers' physical, run-heavy offensive approach.A cubist interpretation of a powerful wide receiver's physicality, reflecting the Steelers' emphasis on size and strength in their passing game.Today in Pittsburgh

As the NFL Draft approaches, Pittsburgh Steelers fans are eagerly awaiting the team's pick at number 21. Local beat writer Mark Kaboly believes the Steelers will target wide receiver Denzel Boston, a 6'4" pass-catcher known for his physicality and ability to make tough catches. This pick would fit the Steelers' recent emphasis on larger, more physical receivers, as the team already boasts two towering wideouts in Michael Pittman Jr. and DK Metcalf.

Why it matters

The Steelers' potential selection of Denzel Boston would signal a continued commitment to a physical, run-heavy offensive approach, bucking the league-wide trend towards speed and agility. This strategy could pay dividends in a league where controlling the line of scrimmage and creating space are crucial.

The details

Kaboly's prediction is based on Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy's preference for larger targets, as well as the team's emphasis on blocking abilities in their wide receivers. At 6'4", Boston exceeds McCarthy's typical height range, but his skills as a 'combat-catch' receiver make him an ideal fit. Boston attacks the ball, makes catches away from his body, and possesses a large catch radius, which could benefit the Steelers' quarterbacks.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Denzel Boston

A wide receiver prospect who has caught the attention of local Pittsburgh media for his physical playing style and ability to make tough catches.

Michael Pittman Jr.

A towering wide receiver currently on the Steelers' roster, known for his size and blocking abilities.

DK Metcalf

Another large wide receiver on the Steelers' roster, who complements the team's physical approach to the passing game.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has expressed a preference for larger targets in the passing game.

Mark Kaboly

A local beat writer who has provided insight into the Steelers' potential draft strategy, predicting the team will target a physical 'combat-catch' receiver like Denzel Boston.

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What they’re saying

“The Steelers will go for a wide receiver, specifically someone who fits the 'combat-catch' mold.”

— Mark Kaboly, Local beat writer

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, where the Steelers will have the opportunity to select Denzel Boston or another wide receiver prospect that fits their physical, run-heavy offensive approach.

The takeaway

The Steelers' potential selection of Denzel Boston would signal a continued commitment to a physical, run-centric offensive identity, bucking the league-wide trend towards speed and agility. This strategy could pay dividends in a league where controlling the line of scrimmage and creating space are crucial, and it would further establish the Steelers as a unique force in the NFL.