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Steelers newcomers hit with harsh reality check in their team debut

The Pittsburgh Steelers made two notable changes to their offense in Week 14—they signed Adam Thielen and elevated Marquez Valdes-Scantling from the practice squad. Thielen, a two-time Pro Bowler in 2017 and 2018, spent his first 11 games of the 2025 season with the Minnesota Vikings, while Valdes-Scantling spent time on the 49ers' roster before coming to Pittsburgh.

Unfortunately, both wide receivers were in for a rude awakening in their first NFL action.

Despite demoting 2024 third-round pick Roman Wilson and thrusting Thielen and Valdes-Scantling into immediate action, the veteran wideouts failed to make their presence felt.