After another abysmal performance by the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line this past week, head coach Mike Tomlin wasn't shy about looking around for upgrades. That was evident by the team's signing of Adrian Ealy on Monday, albeit a small move meant more for depth. According to 93.7 The Fan's Josh Rowntree, Tomlin gave the offensive line group an earful for their performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars said second-year lineman, Kendrick Green.
Credit: Scott Taetsch/Getty Images
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots have began to entertain the idea of trading former first-rounder, Isaiah Wynn according to PFF's Ari Meirov. With a struggling offensive line, the Steelers have to instantly come to mind. Not only is Wynn a talented first-round pick, but he's actually been good when he's been on the field. Unfortunately, that has been the problem for him, as he's struggled to stay on the field, especially early in his career. In four seasons, he's started 34 games and earned very good grades from PFF. MIFootball on Twitter speculated the Steelers' interest.
Source: The #Steelers have a strong interest in available #Patriots OL Isaiah Wynn, the former first-round pick would likely move inside for Pittsburgh.
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) August 22, 2022
These rumors have NOT been confirmed anywhere, so it's important to note this may not be entirely accurate. The likelihood of them being completely false is probably a good bet. But with that being said, why not? Wynn came out of the University of Georgia as a guard, but has played tackle in his time with the Patriots. The Steelers could possibly try him at guard, although it would be risky considering Wynn hasn't played the position in a few years. While he would be an upgrade over Dan Moore Jr. and Chukwuma Okorafor, the team may not be ready to give up on those two just yet. They just shelled out nearly $30 million to Okorafor, while Moore showed some encouraging signs in his 2021 rookie season.
This is why a trade for Wynn is unlikely, unless if they were comfortable moving someone out of position. The team would be more likely to look at improving the interior of the offensive line, perhaps beginning with options at left guard. Amongst the starters, there really wasn't a positive to take away from the Jaguars game. Each starter along the offensive line had mental lapses for the second consecutive week.
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 08: J.C. Tretter #64 of the Cleveland Browns takes the field against the Tennessee Titans at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 08, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
The OL free agent market consists of mostly offensive tackles, but center JC Tretter is an intriguing option. When asked if the signing of Ealy was meant to send a message to the offensive linemen, Tomlin said this according to Bob Pompeani:
Quote of the day from Mike Tomlin “I don’t send messages, I make moves”
— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) August 22, 2022
Tomlin and the coaches clearly aren't happy with Saturday's performance. An addition of Wynn would improve the offensive line, but it remains unlikely. The young guys will likely get another shot, which may lead to another miserable season on offense for Steelers fans. While Wynn is set to earn $10.4 million in 2022, the black and gold have plenty of cap space remaining. Additionally, due to his pricey contract, teams likely won't have to give up much to get him in a trade.
How concerned are you guys about this OL? Would you trade for Isaiah Wynn, or is there no chance it happens? What would you give up for the former first-rounder? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section, as well as on our social media sites!
#SteelerNation
