Markus Wheaton: Dynamic Wide Receiver with Big Plays

Markus Wheaton spent four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers and quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his bursts of speed and ability to turn routine plays into highlight reels. The Steelers Nation cheered him on while he streaked down the sideline or made clutch catches, and his brief time on the team earned him a reputation as a powerful player and a trusted member of the offensive lineup.

From College Star to NFL Standout

Born on February 7, 1991, in Chandler, Arizona, Wheaton played football in high school and at Oregon State University. During his college career, he amassed 227 receptions and 2,994 receiving yards, which earned him attention from recruiters. His explosive speed earned him a spot in the 2013 NFL draft, where the Steelers selected him in the third round, 79th overall.

Wheaton’s early years in Pittsburgh allowed him to develop his game under veteran receivers. By 2014, though, he emerged as a key part of the Steelers’ high-powered offense. That season, he posted 53 receptions for 644 yards and two touchdowns.

Mark His Mark on the Black and Gold

Wheaton’s breakout moment came in 2015 when he delivered the finest season of his NFL career. He finished with 749 receiving yards and five touchdowns, including an unforgettable 201-yard performance against the Seattle Seahawks. His performance, along with that of the rest of the Steelers’ incredible offensive lineup, helped lead Pittsburgh to the playoffs.

Unfortunately, injuries cut Wheaton’s time in the NFL short. After four seasons in Pittsburgh, Wheaton briefly played for the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles before retiring from the game in 2019.

Finding Purchase After Football

Stepping away from the NFL wasn’t easy, as football had been a way of life for Wheaton for a long time. But he embraced the challenge of finding a new direction after the game, transitioning into a real estate business working alongside his older brother.

Wheaton’s new career gave him purpose and structure, but even better, it gave him more time to spend with his family. Today, you’ll find Wheaton managing his real estate properties, taking his wife on dates, and spending lots of time with his three small children.

Welcome Aboard the Legends of Pittsburgh Cruise, Markus Wheaton

Markus Wheaton will set sail on the 2026 Legends of Pittsburgh Cruise! This is your chance to meet the former Steelers wide receiver, hear firsthand stories from his playing days, and relive the moments that made his career so memorable.

Book your spot now and join Markus Wheaton and other Pittsburgh legends for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.