The Pittsburgh Steelers stunned the NFL world with their decision to trade away star wide receiver Diontae Johnson earlier this offseason. Many speculated that this move signaled their intent to secure a replacement either through a trade or free agency. Reports had been circulating for weeks suggesting that the Steelers were actively pursuing a significant trade at the wide receiver position.
Ben Solomon / Pittsburgh Steelers
Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver, Diontae Johnson (18) makes a catch during an away game against the Los Angeles Rams.
However, as time passed, Steelers fans began to lose hope of a successful deal materializing. On the In The Huddle podcast, NFL Insider Jason La Canfora disclosed that Pittsburgh is still vigorously pursuing a major trade for a wide receiver. While the urgency is evident, La Canfora did not provide a specific timeline for when the trade might occur. Nonetheless, the Steelers remain committed and eager to bolster their wide receiver corps through a trade.
"For me, there's a piece of information we don't have yet, which is do they trade for a wide receiver before the draft? It would not surprise me if they did that tomorrow, if they did it the Wednesday before the draft. If they did it while they were on the clock, if they did it in the run up to the draft that Thursday, I know that they're really trying to make something happen there.”
Another potential avenue for the Steelers to address the void left by Johnson's departure could be through the upcoming NLF Draft. Numerous experts speculate that Pittsburgh aims to replicate their past success in drafting wide receivers. In the event that a trade for a veteran wide receiver doesn't materialize, La Canfora suggests that drafting one is a likely course of action for the Steelers.
"They've done an incredible job drafting wide receivers. So if they don't get a veteran plug-and-play guy, then yeah."
In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Steelers selected George Pickens in the second round. Making an immediate impact, Pickens secured 52 receptions for 801 yards and four touchdowns in his rookie season. Should the Steelers opt to draft another wide receiver, they'll focus on finding someone who can seamlessly step in, contribute from day one, and deliver results like Pickens was able to do.
Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens signals a first down against the Colts in 2023.
The Steelers need another starting caliber wide receiver that can help complement their new quarterback Russell Wilson and play alongside Pickens. The pressure is on for Pittsburgh to be able to make a trade happen.
Steelers' Wide Receiver Trade Target Could Still Be Brandon Aiyuk
The Steelers seem intent on avoiding the need to draft a starting wide receiver by exploring trade options for a seasoned player. One name circulating in reports is San Francisco 49ers standout, Brandon Aiyuk, adding an exciting prospect to the mix.
USA Today
49ers wide receiver, Brandon Aiyuk celebrates after a big game.
However, such a move would entail significant financial considerations, given Aiyuk's contract demands. Nonetheless, envisioning Aiyuk alongside Pickens in the receiver lineup presents an enticing proposition.
Acquiring a proven wide receiver through trade could substantially bolster the Steelers' Super Bowl aspirations for 2024. Steelers enthusiasts eagerly await Omar Khan's potential wizardry in the upcoming weeks.
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