Pittsburgh Steelers: Why There is No Concern About Mike Wallace's Preseason

Mike Wallace of the Pittsburgh Steelers predicted that he would get 2,000 yards in the 2011 NFL season.

Those are strong words coming from a player who has only been in the league for two years. Not even Jerry Rice—the best receiver to ever play in the history of the NFL—was able to accomplish that feat.

Wallace hasn’t been able to get things going in the NFL preseason with just two catches for nine yards.

Pittsburgh should not be worried one bit about his no-show thus far.

Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers’ quarterbacks have only targeted him five times through three games. Once his targets go up, expect his production to be increased significantly.

He won’t get to 2,000 yards this year or ever in his career, but he is a guy who can do many things to help the Steelers’ now vaunted offensive attack.

His speed, big-play ability and now experience (to a degree) will be important for a Steelers run for another Lombardi Trophy.

If anything, Wallace has provided space for other receivers to get involved in the passing game like Antonio Brown, who has been lights out in the preseason.

Last season, Wallace was fifth in receiving with 1,257 yards.

Although Wallace’s two receptions through three games isn’t something to be excited about, other top-notch wide receivers went through the same problem last year.

Pro Bowl wide receivers Calvin Johnson of the Detroit Lions and Dwayne Bowe of the Kansas City Chiefs, had six and seven receptions respectively through their first three preseason games in 2010.

Johnson finished with 77 receptions for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns. Bowe scored 15 touchdowns from 72 receptions and 1,162 yards.

Also, Wallace received 11 targets through four preseason games in 2010.

In Game 1 against the Detroit Lions, Wallace was targeted twice. In Game 2 against the New York Giants, Wallace was targeted three times. In Game 3 against the Denver Broncos, Wallace was targeted five times. In Game 4 against the Carolina Panthers, Wallace was targeted just once.

He caught six balls compared to two this season.

There is no need to worry about Wallace, especially with the dynamic offense the Steelers have.

The competition from Brown, Jerricho Cotchery and Emmanuel Sanders will only help Wallace and the Steelers as a whole. They will push him to be a more complete receiver, not just a deep threat. He understands that if he doesn’t play to his capabilities that there are guys behind him who deserve more opportunities.

Mike Wallace will not get to his desired 2,000 yards, but his lackluster preseason is not indicative to what he will do for the Steelers in 2011.