PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – In just the second game of his NFL career and following six catches, 37 yards in the opener, receiver Calvin Austin will be expected to put his hand in the pile with Diontae Johnson out for at least this week and reportedly as many as three more with a hamstring injury.
"It's just about coming here, showing up each day and working," Austin said Wednesday. "They've figure out throughout the week, they will all put us in a position to succeed."
What they will figure out is where they look to position the receivers to fill the inside presence of Diontae. Gunner Olszewski is listed as his direct back-up, but you would think Austin will get at least some practice reps inside.
"I've gotten a lot of work at both," Austin said. "This is part of our offense. We have a lot of interchangeable parts and we've been thrown around all camp to be prepared for moments like this. We will all be able to do inside and out."
That could be the play is to move guys around, likely all guys other than George Pickens. While Johnson has been criticized for drops over his time with the team, over the last three seasons-281 catches (149 for first down), 2,966 yards, 15 touchdowns (all in '20 & '21).
"He's one of the best route-runners in the league," Austin said. "He's going to be there with us every step of the way until we get there. On the field, his ability to create separation. That is something we all have to pick up and make up for since he won't be there. He'll be there coaching us up. It's about us getting on the field and executing."
Austin said he's often talked to Johnson about improving his game. His locker is one down from the veteran and said he's been studying Diontae's route nuances and believes it's helped him get more separation from the defense. Based on what Cleveland showed in week one, that quickness can really work to his advantage against the Browns.
"It's about getting ready for that matchup, based off what they did against Cincy," Austin said. "We can anticipate they will probably do some of the same things. I welcome whatever coverage is going to be brought. We are prepared for a little more press man than usual."
Austin said in the offense's study of the tape, it wasn't about fixing issues as much as it was they got in their own way or messed themselves up against San Francisco. The talk has been about every person locking in on their assignments and details and more than anything getting out of your own head and executing.
There is also a strong belief with the group that Kenny Pickett will be better on Monday night.
"His preparation and how he comes to work every day," Austin said of why they have confidence in him. "You know his mindset and how he's built. He's a guy that's got to be here. He's worked hard.
You got a guy like that, the only thing he is going to do is work harder."
"We are right behind him. We are with him. That wasn't anything, we know he will be right back.
