Calvin Austin III Reflects on Misuse During Time with Steelers as He Joins Giants

Calvin Austin III recently shared insights into his career trajectory as he transitions to the New York Giants, following a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. With notable additions like Odell Beckham Jr. and JuJu Smith-Schuster, the Giants' receiving corps has become increasingly competitive. Austin now finds himself among other new faces, including Darnell Mooney and Malik Nabers, as well as holdover Darius Slayton and rookie Malachi Fields, selected in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

When asked about his role with the Giants, Austin expressed confidence in his versatility, stating, “Where do I fit in? I can play inside. I can play outside. And that’s something that people will see.” This sentiment may resonate with Steelers fans who recall his underutilization in Pittsburgh. Despite showcasing impressive speed, Austin often felt pigeonholed during his time under former offensive coordinator Matt Canada.

In the 2023 season, Austin's deployment leaned heavily on gadget plays, motion, and sporadic deep attempts, limiting his potential to evolve as a comprehensive receiver. However, his fortunes changed in the following years, as he became a more integral part of the offense, amassing 67 receptions for 920 yards and seven touchdowns during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. This performance underscored his capability beyond just being a deep threat or a gadget player.

Now with the Giants, Austin is poised to demonstrate that his talents extend far beyond the limited role he experienced in Pittsburgh. While he may not be the primary target, his ability to adapt and threaten defenses in various ways adds valuable depth to New York's offense. Austin is eager to prove that he’s more than just a former gadget player and can significantly contribute to the Giants' success.