While they were sharing a suite at training camp, Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers pitched a "lengthy homework assignment" to his star wide receiver DK Metcalf, as described by The Athletic's Mike DeFabo in a new piece published Thursday.
The to-do was straightforward, if a bit time-consuming: every week, watch film and prepare a scouting report for Pittsburgh's opponent that go-around. And although the task ultimately slipped Rodgers's mind, he was nonetheless impressed when Metcalf remembered.
"I kind of forgot about it,” Rodgers told DeFabo after the Steelers defeated the New York Jets on Sunday. "On Tuesday, guess what I got? I got a text message with his thoughts. It wasn’t a short one. It was like he put a lot of time into it. That’s what everybody loves about DK ... he really cares about it."
Rodgers shared the story as a way of complimenting his WR1, who, like the QB, joined the Steelers over the offseason. Aside from Rodgers himself, Metcalf is perhaps the team's biggest offensive star—and could serve to elevate its reputation from middle-of-the-pack to league leader.
Other players and coaches were similarly adulatory regarding the wideout, now in his seventh season in the league. Joey Porter Jr. called him a "freak of nature." Coach Mike Tomlin described him as a "professional." And second-year receiver Roman Wilson said he's "the blueprint."
Last week, Metcalf had four catches for 83 yards. He didn't snag any of Rodgers's four touchdown passes. But that usage will surely go up as the season progresses, especially if his teammates' praise is any indication.
On Sunday, he'll go up against his former team when the Steelers host the Seahawks at Acrisure Stadium. TBD whether he whips up a scouting report.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as How DK Metcalf Aced His Off-Field 'Homework Assignment' From Aaron Rodgers .