In a bold move aimed at fortifying the defense, the Pittsburgh Steelers have orchestrated a trade that sees them parting ways with a valuable offensive asset in exchange for secondary reinforcement, a decision that raises eyebrows given the timing in light of their acquisition of Russell Wilson.
Amidst the fanfare surrounding the signing of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, the Steelers seized the opportunity presented by his league-minimum contract to go all-in for the upcoming 2024 season.
However, this ambitious move was somewhat overshadowed by the significant roster adjustments made in the preceding week.
Last week, the Steelers made headline-grabbing cuts to their secondary unit as part of a strategic effort to alleviate salary cap constraints. Notable names such as Patrick Peterson and Keanu Neal were released, leaving gaps that needed to be filled to maintain defensive solidity.
Enter Donte Jackson, acquired in a trade with the Carolina Panthers. According to insider Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Steelers relinquished Diontae Johnson and a seventh-round pick to secure Jackson’s services, along with a sixth-round pick in return.
Jackson, a product of the Panthers’ 2018 second-round draft selection, brings with him a wealth of experience and prowess that should bolster Pittsburgh’s transitioning secondary for the forthcoming season.
The departure of Johnson, one of the Steelers’ most potent offensive weapons and the team’s second-leading receiver last season, underscores the significance of this trade.
While Wilson will still have the talented George Pickens as a target, the decision to trade away Johnson, particularly in the wake of Wilson’s arrival, raises questions and invites scrutiny.
Despite murmurs of the team’s interest in moving Johnson, the actualization of this trade remains surprising.
Nevertheless, the Steelers are banking on Wilson’s ability to adapt and thrive with the remaining offensive arsenal at his disposal, even as the departure of another veteran pass catcher, Allen Robinson, further reshapes the team’s offensive landscape.