Steelers' Van Jefferson: Remains favorite for No. 2 WR spot

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Jefferson has taken most of the first-team reps in two-wide formations during training camp, Mike DeFabo of The Athletic reports.

Jefferson was billed as the favorite for the No. 2 WR job heading into camp, albeit with competition for roles appearing wide open beyond runaway No. 1 receiver George Pickens. Rookie third-round pick Roman Wilson is considered week-to-week after injuring his ankle July 30, and third-year pro Calvin Austin seems like a better bet for the No. 3 role given that he's one of the smallest players in the league (listed at 5-foot-9, 162 pounds). Jefferson thus has a nice opportunity to earn a starting job, although that might entail a lot more blocking than catching passes under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Jefferson's 345 snaps under Smith in Atlanta last season yielded only 28 targets and a 12-101-0 line.