Calvin Austin III was carted off during Giants practice after his knee buckled on a route, halting drills and leaving the team to assess his health and potential roster impact.
In OTA No. 5, the Giants practiced in a strong Meadowlands wind as Jaxson Dart connected on several deep passes, including a touchdown to Eric Gray, and worked well with Calvin Austin III with Nabers out. Dart’s standout 7-on-7 throw went to Beaux Collins, while the defense’s lone takeaway came from Korie Black after a day of multiple interceptions. Outside linebacker Brian Burns generated several would-be sacks, Abdul Carter also pressured the quarterback, and rookie Arvell Reese flashed with a big-hit timing play. Safety Tyler Nubin started 11-on-11s with a pass breakup and drew praise from the staff. Remaining OTAs run through May 29 and June 1-4, followed by minicamp June 8-10.
The Giants wrapped up their second 2026 spring OTA at Quest Diagnostics with a two-hour practice in 90-degree heat. Calvin Austin III stole the show on offense, while quarterback Jaxson Dart delivered quick, accurate passes, including a notable 7-on-7 sequence and a connection to Isaiah Likely on a high throw. Likely also made a spectacular one-handed catch. On defense, Kayvon Thibodeaux and others pressured the QB and showed improved communication in the new scheme as the team continues installing systems ahead of the final OTA of the week.
The New York Giants signed wide receiver Calvin Austin III to a one-year deal worth up to $4.5 million, adding a speedy slot option and punt-return value. A former Steelers fourth-round pick (5'7.75", 170 lbs) with a 4.32s 40-yard dash, Austin has elite athleticism and recent NFL production that could help stretch the field and fill Wan'Dale Robinson's slot role, though the Giants may still pursue an outside receiver to pair with Malik Nabers.
With free agency officially opening, the Steelers are weighing bringing Calvin Austin III back after his 2025 line of 31 receptions, 372 yards and 3 TDs highlighted his reliability as a slot threat. GM Omar Khan says the team wants him back at the right price within the cap and scheme, and insiders note that as hours pass without a deal, Pittsburgh’s familiarity with Austin and the timing of free agency could boost their odds. The piece also mentions Pittsburgh’s reshaped WR room, including a trade for Michael Pittman Jr. and the potential outside tandem with DK Metcalf, which would influence Austin’s slot/WR3 role and add depth as rookies develop.
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns due to a hamstring injury, despite earlier optimism about his participation. Pickens, who has 850 receiving yards and three touchdowns this season, had not missed a game since being drafted in 2022. Meanwhile, Calvin Austin III will play after clearing concussion protocol. Pickens recently made headlines for a scuffle with Browns' Greg Newsome II and was fined for unsportsmanlike conduct in a previous game.
Steelers pass rusher Alex Highsmith is expected to return for Sunday's game against the Browns after missing three games due to injury, according to coach Mike Tomlin. Highsmith had been performing well before his absence, with notable stats against the Giants. However, the Steelers may be without wide receiver Calvin Austin III, who is in concussion protocol after a hit in the game against the Bengals.
In a close game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Washington Commanders, two overlooked plays were crucial in Pittsburgh's victory. Calvin Austin III made a critical 13-yard catch on 2nd and 16, setting up a manageable 3rd down that led to a game-winning touchdown by Mike Williams. Additionally, Keeanu Benton made a game-saving open-field tackle on Commanders' QB Jayden Daniels, preventing a potential field goal opportunity that could have changed the game's outcome.
The trade of Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers opens up opportunities for WR Calvin Austin III to have a more significant role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense. With Johnson's departure, Austin is poised to see increased playing time, especially with the arrival of QB Russell Wilson, known for his ability to throw deep passes. Despite the possibility of the Steelers drafting a wide receiver early, Austin's experience and speed could make him a key asset in the upcoming season.
Kenny Pickett threw a 72-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III, making it the longest touchdown pass in Pittsburgh Steelers history against the Las Vegas Raiders, surpassing the iconic "Immaculate Reception." The Steelers and Raiders were tied 7-7 at the time of the touchdown.
Kenny Pickett threw a 72-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III, making it the longest touchdown pass in Pittsburgh Steelers history against the Las Vegas Raiders. This surpassed the iconic "Immaculate Reception" play from 1972. Despite a late surge from the Raiders, the Steelers held on to win 23-18.
Kenny Pickett and Calvin Austin III stood out during the Pittsburgh Steelers' practice under the lights at Latrobe Memorial Stadium. Pickett had an impressive performance, completing 11 out of 12 passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns, while Austin showcased his ability to make contested catches. The Steelers' offense needed a boost after struggling in previous practices, and Pickett and Austin delivered.