The Pittsburgh Steelers recently brought in former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Gabe Davis for a second visit this summer as they continue to consider him for their wide receiver group. Davis initially visited Pittsburgh shortly after the team’s mini camp and returned again following training camp, signaling sustained interest amidst the ongoing search for receiver additions before the season’s start. The focus on Gabe Davis Steelers second visit reflects the team’s caution given his injury history and current health status.
Davis’s Injury History and Free Agency Status
At 26 years old, Gabe Davis’s 2024 season ended prematurely after ten games due to a meniscus injury in his knee. Following that injury, he spent the remainder of the year on Injured Reserve before the Jaguars decided to release him after just one season. Since then, Davis has visited several NFL teams but has yet to secure a contract offer.
Medical Evaluations Raise Red Flags for Teams
According to Mike Prisuta of WDVE, concerns from medical examinations have played a significant role in why Davis has not signed with a team. Prisuta reported,
“Gabe Davis was brought in for a medical follow-up,”
adding,
“And when he came in free agency, the Steelers did not like, and subsequently other teams have not liked, what they saw from MRIs or whatever it was that they looked at following that knee injury that ended his season last year.”
Visits with the Bills and Continued Interest from Steelers
After his second visit with Pittsburgh, Davis traveled to Buffalo to meet with the Bills, where he spent four productive years, accumulating 27 touchdown catches and establishing himself as a key target for quarterback Josh Allen. Now a free agent, Davis is reportedly considering reuniting with Buffalo, but the Steelers remain keen on adding him, especially as they have struggled to acquire other potential receivers.
Steelers’ Receiver Needs and Ongoing Challenges
Pittsburgh’s wide receiver group requires reinforcement ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the New York Jets. While Calvin Austin III is expected to start alongside DK Metcalf, Austin has battled an oblique injury throughout most of training camp and the preseason, leaving his readiness in question. The Steelers have also explored options like Terry McLaurin from the Washington Commanders and Jordan Palmer from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but have not made progress in those pursuits.
Potential Outcomes Dependent on Medical Clearance
The Steelers’ willingness to sign Gabe Davis may hinge on updated MRI results from his recent visit. A favorable medical report could elevate Davis to the team’s top priority for adding depth at wide receiver before the regular season begins. However, if concerns persist, the Steelers are likely to continue pursuing alternate options to bolster their receiving corps.