The Pittsburgh Steelers, as the trade deadline was coming down to the waning moments, found themselves frequently immersed in behind-the-scenes maneuvers and trade speculations that sparked the fervent imaginations of fans. In a recent eye-catching development, the Steelers set their sights on Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, in a bid to fortify their secondary.
Kamil Krzaczynski / AP
The Pittsburgh Steelers were looking at Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson for a 2023 trade.
According to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, the Steelers made a captivating last minute push for Johnson.
“The Steelers also made a 'very strong' push at getting CB Jaylon Johnson from the Bears. Chicago had a market for him, there was real interest from multiple contenders, and it felt early on something might happen. But Johnson is staying put.”
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler had also played a part in the narrative, disclosing that the Steelers were actively exploring ways to bolster their secondary. This revelation sparked excitement among Steelers fans and NFL enthusiasts alike, as the pursuit of such a promising young talent piqued curiosity.
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Steelers Tried But Failed
It appeared that Johnson's potential availability had already generated interest across the league. Chicago, recognizing the valuable asset they had in Johnson, saw several contenders express genuine interest in acquiring his services, setting the stage for a potentially eventful trade. However, as the story unfolded, it became evident that Johnson would remain with the Bears.
Johnson, at just 24 years old, is making a name for himself as one of the NFL's top cornerbacks. This season, he boasts a remarkable coverage grade of 84.4, ranking him as the third-highest graded cornerback in football, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). Given his youth and the high level of performance he has consistently demonstrated, Johnson's upcoming free agency has only further enhanced his allure to potential suitors.
Although the Steelers pursuit of Johnson did not yield the desired outcome, it underscored the team's commitment to fortifying their defense. The quest for talented cornerbacks who could make an immediate impact remained a central focus for the Steelers as the deadline came to a close.
Despite the Steelers' fervent desire to add Johnson to their defensive arsenal, their quest ultimately did not reach a successful conclusion. The complexities of NFL trades, along with the competitive nature of the market, often mean that even the most promising deals may not come to fruition. For Steelers fans, this is a gentle reminder that the Steelers did at least make a very strong final push to bring in the young corner.
For Johnson, this experience highlights the high regard in which he is held across the league. The fact that the Steelers, as well as many other contenders, made a significant push for his services speaks volumes about his standing in the NFL. As he approaches free agency, Johnson's future remains an intriguing storyline to watch.
Jae C. Hong / AP
Pittsburgh Steelers were looking at current Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson for a potential 2023 trade.
In the ever-dynamic world of professional football, deals can materialize with a snap, be derailed by unforeseen obstacles, or, as in the case of Johnson, remain unfulfilled despite a "very strong" push from a team seeking to bolster its roster. For Steelers fans, it's yet another chapter in the unpredictable journey of the NFL, where the pursuit of top talent continues to shape the league's landscape.
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