Pittsburgh Steelers news: Markus Wheaton poised for increased role in 2014

Aug 24, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Markus Wheaton (11) scores a touchdown past Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Neiko Thorpe (38) in the second half at Heinz Field. The Chiefs won the game in overtime, 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Markus Wheaton played a limited role in the offense during his rookie campaign. Part of his lack of production was due to a broken pinkie finger that kept him out of action, while the lack of four wide receiver sets made it difficult for Wheaton to see time while he was healthy.

However, with wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders set to become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, Wheaton appears poised to have his snaps “at least triple” in 2014.

According to ESPN, Wheaton played in just 153 snaps this season, while Sanders logged 771 snaps.

The Steelers were hoping that Wheaton would be able to fill the void left in the offense by Mike Wallace, who left the team during free agency for the Miami Dolphins. Unfortunately, Wheaton never developed as the deep threat the team was hoping for, but he did show some flashes throughout the season.

If Wheaton sees his snap count jump in 2014, he could emerge as a breakout player for the team as they look to improve on this year’s record.

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