Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Training Camp Update - Receivers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have built a franchise over the years that is known for running the football. There were some awesome receivers in the Steeler Super Bowl years to be sure, but the bottom line has always been to stuff the ball down the defenses throat with the running game. This season, the Steelers might just mix a bit more passing into the game plan with a talented group of receivers led by Pro Bowler Hines Ward and second year man Santonio Holmes.

Hines Ward is an absolute must in the Steeler offense as he has been incredibly steady over the past 6 seasons. Consider this, if you will. Hines Ward has had 6 straight seasons of 975 yards or better, and all of this while playing on a run first team. He is also one of the premiere blockers at his position and that takes a toll on most receivers. Ward has managed to play through it all and produce. Ward and Roethlisberger have a wonderful rapport that really seems to be getting better each season.

Santonio Holmes is in his second year and many think he will explode this season. This young receiver can flat out fly, and make the tough catches as well in traffic. He is electrifying to watch and should be a crowd pleaser in the same vein as Swann and Stallworth before him. He has a respect for the game, and is learning the ropes from one of the best in game in Ward. He goes into the 2007 season with the number two slot firmly in hand.

The next two receivers on the depth chart are Cedrick Wilson and Nate Washington. Wilson made some great strides last season and produced a very respectable 500+ yards last season and should be the guy to watch out of these two players. Washington is a little more green but certainly is catching on fast, and should overtake Wilson by next season on the depth chart. He had 600+ yards last season and 6 touchdowns. Not bad numbers for a number four receiver at all.