Justin Hunter, Steelers Agree on Contract After 1 Year with Bills

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced on Wednesday that they have agreed to a one-year contract with wide receiver Justin Hunter.

Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com and Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette initially reported the deal.

Hunter, 25, is coming off a disappointing season with the Buffalo Bills, catching just 10 passes for 189 yards in 12 games, though he did score four touchdowns. He also played one game with the Miami Dolphins to start the season before being waived. After getting drafted in the second round by the Tennessee Titans in 2013, Hunter has largely underachieved.

Fowler provided more context on the signing from Pittsburgh's perspective: 

Hunter will bring a new dimension to Pittsburgh's offense. Despite his mediocre production throughout his career, Hunter is still a downfield threat who can stretch defenses while also providing a big body in the red zone.

While Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell are the focal points of Pittsburgh's offense, the Steelers required depth at wideout with the departure of Markus Wheaton, who signed with the Chicago Bears. Eli Rogers will likely remain the team's top option out of the slot, while the return of Martavis Bryant from suspension will give Pittsburgh another solid option on the outside.

If tight end Ladarius Green can remain healthy, the Steelers will have a healthy cadre of weapons in the passing game.

But Hunter provides not only depth in general but also a backup plan to Bryant, who is still waiting to be reinstated by the NFL. According to Fowler, "The Steelers view Bryant's potential presence as a bonus, but they aren't tailoring offensive plans around him right now—not until he is back in the lineup and has proven he's reliable."

Still, Bryant's ability to stretch the field was a major asset for the Steelers. If Bryant ultimately sees his reinstatement delayed—or if he is released by the team—Hunter will be expected to provide that field-stretching skill set.