The Pittsburgh Steelers have been struggling to acquire a wide receiver via trade this season, but they still have about two weeks before the NFL trade deadline.
There’s time for the team to make a significant move that could impact their 2024 season. On October 19, CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones reported that the Steelers are expected to be “aggressively pursuing” the wide receiver market before the deadline.
“Sources believe the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers will be the most aggressive teams in seeking another receiver ahead of the deadline,” Jones wrote.
The Steelers had their sights set on Brandon Aiyuk back in August, but the 49ers extended him. They also attempted to make a move for Davante Adams, who ultimately stayed focused on a potential deal with the Jets and Aaron Rodgers.
The Steelers believe Russell Wilson is back to his form from a few years ago, and there’s hope that he can thrive in Arthur Smith’s offense while enhancing the vertical passing game. With an improved offense and a strong defense, Pittsburgh views itself as a serious AFC contender this season.
Currently 4-2, the Steelers rank 28th in passing yards per game. George Pickens remains the only receiver on the team with more than 10 catches through the first six games.
Do the Steelers Desperately Need WR Help?
Steelers fans have been vocal about their desire for the team to add a wide receiver ever since the organization traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers during free agency.
The Steelers have been linked to numerous receivers in both free agency and trade discussions, including a close call with San Francisco 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk. However, no major moves have materialized.
In the meantime, the Steelers have relied on Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III, and Scott Miller to lead the receiving corps behind George Pickens. Jefferson, who has played 66.5% of the team’s offensive snaps, has just 8 catches for 62 yards.
The Steelers are optimistic that Wilson, starting in Week 7, will help improve the passing game, but they still need a stronger option at WR2.
Who Could the Steelers Target in a WR Trade?
The wide receiver trade market narrowed recently, with the New York Jets acquiring Davante Adams and the Buffalo Bills securing Amari Cooper. However, neither player was a realistic target for Pittsburgh.
Though Johnson’s return to the Steelers might be an intriguing idea, NFL trade rules prevent it.
One of the most logical trade targets for the Steelers is Mike Williams, who could become expendable with the Jets’ addition of Adams. Pittsburgh had shown interest in Williams during the offseason before he signed with New York.
Jonathan Jones also highlighted several other potential receivers who might be available before the November 5 deadline, including Adam Thielen from the Panthers, Elijah Moore from the Browns, DeAndre Hopkins from the Titans, Christian Kirk from the Jaguars, Kendrick Bourne from the Patriots, and Darius Slayton from the Giants.
Hopkins and Slayton have been common names in trade rumors involving the Steelers this year. However, Moore is likely not a realistic option, as he already plays within the AFC North.
Thielen has had a solid career, though injuries have plagued him in recent seasons. Kirk and Bourne are younger options, both under 30, if the Steelers prefer a more youthful alternative to the 32-year-old Hopkins.
