What To Expect from the Steelers' Wide Receivers After This Year

My sister Nikki and I were talking earlier about the state of the Steelers wide receivers.  Don't get me wrong, we both still love Hines Ward, but reality is, Hines is not getting any younger.

Ward is 33 and entering his 12th season. Law of averages says Ward is going to be slowing down over the next couple of years.

Not that he was ever known for his speed. Ward is known for his sure hands, his ability to get open, and his uncanny ability to knock men that are much larger than him out.

Don't believe me, ask Keith Rivers.

But what is going to happen to the Steelers receivers once Ward is no longer able to do what it is that Hines Ward does?

Future No. 1, Santonio Holmes.

Over the last two seasons, Santonio Holmes has begun the transition into one of the premier receivers in the NFL. He stepped up big in his first Super Bowl, becoming the Super Bowl MVP for one of the most amazing catches in Super Bowl history.

Santonio Holmes was selected after Pittsburgh won Super Bowl XL. He had no real experience on the biggest stage, but acted like he had been there before.

Future No. 2, Limas Sweed.

After signing his massive contract, Big Ben Roethlisberger requested a tall receiver. He got his wish with 6'4", Limas Sweed.

After being selected in the second round of the 2007 draft, Limas Sweed did not have what anyone would consider a steller start to a career. Like most Steelers rookies, Sweed had a slow start.

When Hines Ward was injured in the AFC Championship game, Sweed missed a wide open touchdown pass. A few plays later, Sweed showed that even though his hands had yet to mature, he learned a few things from Hines Ward.

Future No. 3, Mike Wallace.

Some of the most important traits a slot receiver needs is speed, and ability to separate from the defender, other than the ability to catch the ball, of course.

Mike Wallace was the second fastest receiver at the scouting combine in Indianapolis this year.

He possesses the ability to separate against the defender, plus he is above average in speed.

If you are going to pay a quarterback over $100 million, you better get him some weapons to make him successful. The Steelers have done just that with these three young men.

All three have the big play potential that will lead the Steelers in the years to come.