The Steelers offense has a new weapon in former Longhorns wide Receiver Tarik Black. On Monday, Pittsburgh signed Black to a one-year deal worth $795,000. Former Michigan star Roman Wilson suffered an ankle injury in practice on Tuesday, which could lead to more playing time for Black.
As Black starts his Steelers career, he will be looking to appear in his first NFL game since the 2021 season. He made his NFL debut with the New Jets in Week 18, recording one catch for ten yards on two targets. While he has yet to find a permanent role on an NFL team, Black was a solid receiver in college.
In 29 games with the Longhorns and Wolverines, Black hauled in 50 receptions for 747 receiving yards and scored three touchdowns. He averaged 14.9 yards per catch and a career-high 24 with the Longhorns.
While Black only spent one year in Texas, he made the most of his opportunities. In 10 games, he recorded 240 receiving yards, the second-most of his career. As he battles for a roster spot in Pittsburgh, he will be looking to show that he can be a reliable depth option when called upon.
With the preseason just beginning, Black has plenty of time to show the Steelers why he should be on the roster when they open their season against the Falcons on September 8. Many in Austin will be closely watching as rosters continue to get trimmed down and Black looks to take advantage of his latest chance in the NFL.
He originally signed as an undrafted free agent with the Indianapolis Colts after the 2021 NFL Draft but spent the whole season on the practice squad. Over the last few years, Black has been signed and released by various teams, with Pittsburgh being his latest stop.