Since 1974, The Pittsburgh Steelers have been better than anyone at finding and developing wide receivers. When one leaves or retires, it seems the next big-play receiver is ready to step up and take over. Often, the Steelers have had some of the league’s best receiver tandems as well.

For example:

Lynn Swann, John Stallworth

John Stallworth, Louis Lipps

Yancey Thigpen, Charles Johnson

Hines Ward, Plaxico Burress

Mike Wallace, Antonio Brown

Antonio Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster

JuJu Smith-Schuster, ??????

The latest receiver who looks to be parting ways with the Steelers, Antonio Brown, is the best in the business. Brown, coming off the best six-year stretch ever, is responsible for some of the most memorable moments in franchise history. Replacing Brown won’t be easy, but the Steelers may already have their guy, James Washington.

Let the James Washington era begin

Washington had a slow start to his rookie season, looking lost at times, but nonetheless has a big play reputation. In four years at Oklahoma State, Washington caught 228 passes totaling 4,472 yards and 39 touchdowns. He averaged an impressive 19.8 yards per reception.

Throughout the season, and despite his lack of success early on, Washington continued to work diligently. His efforts began to pay off over the final month of the season as he started to flash his potential. In two of his final three games, against New Orleans and Cincinnati, Washington caught six balls for 129 yards, averaging over 21 yards per reception.

That’s the kind of production the Steelers envisioned when they made him the 60th overall selection last April. While nobody could ever truly replace Brown, Washington’s talent and work ethic give the Steelers confidence that he’ll be productive. They also believe Washington will be a nice compliment to JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Down to the wire

Ben Roethlisberger is losing the best weapon in the NFL. Washington is prepared for earning the opportunity to step in and pick up the slack. The Steelers not only want him to, but they also need him to. Washington has star potential and it’s time for him to own it. After a full season in Randy Fichtner’s offense and an entire offseason to prepare, it’s Washington’s time to shine.