Steelers Could Be Beneficiary Of Wild Scenario That Takes Pro Bowl WR Terry McLaurin To Pittsburgh

The majority of the fan base for the Pittsburgh Steelers is likely exhausted when it comes to the conversations surrounding the organization's wide receiver position. With 2024 training camp roughly a month away, anyone who follows football understands that George Pickens is the only dangerous wideout threat that new quarterback Russell Wilson has in the passing game. Pat Freiermuth could legitimately end up being the second target, but hopes for a trade still remain present in the Steel City. It seems like San Francisco 49ers pass-catcher Brandon Aiyuk is the most popular name when it comes to Pittsburgh acquiring another top level receiver.

While Yinzers everywhere are imagining an Arthur Smith-led offense with Aiyuk and George Pickens as the top two receivers, other teams will absolutely be in play if the 49ers do indeed trade the play-maker. The Washington Commanders could be at the top of that list.

Aiyuk could be the prized possession of all potential trade targets as training camp approaches, but a name that could get lost in dialogue if the Commanders do make a move for Aiyuk is veteran Terry McLaurin. An addition of the disgruntled San Francisco pass-catcher could lead to an attractive duo between he and Jahan Dotson. Teams have not been shy in recent years when moving on from veteran players, so what if McLaurin ends up being expendable?

Pittsburgh radio host Chris Mueller made it a point to bring up McLaurin early in the 2024 offseason in relation to the Steelers. It was consistently discussed, but short-lived. It all of a sudden has become relevant again given the price tag that Aiyuk may come with. If the Daniels and Aiyuk connection is legitimate, could the Commanders afford to pay the young wideout post-trade along with McLaurin, whose cap hit is $24.1 million in 2024 and $25 million in 2025?

The Commanders likely aren't going to win the Super Bowl in 2024. Any logical fan of the game would acknowledge this, but the franchise can plan for the future. A move for Aiyuk gives the team a legitimate top-end wide receiver for at least four seasons and a decision to trade McLaurin wouldn't be a bad one business-wise. It just so happens that the Steelers need a dynamic play-maker that also doesn't threaten Pickens' ego. McLaurin could be that guy.

Pittsburgh trading Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers was received well originally, but it is starting to feel like that move could haunt the team in 2024. With no real answer at wide receiver besides Pickens, the lack of a trade could be extremely detrimental to the 2024 squad's potential.

Steelers Resolving Current Wide Receiver Conundrum Could Lead To Unexpected 2024 Season

General Manager Omar Khan has done an incredible job since officially taking over in 2022. Fans have welcomed his unpredictability, but still demand postseason success in the near future. The defense is still strong, but a Matt Canada-led offense for the majority of the last three seasons has so many questioning if Head Coach Mike Tomlin can still lead the way for the Steelers. Whether it's Aiyuk, McLaurin, or another big name, no one is doubting that another wideout is absolutely necessary.

Do you think that McLaurin could somehow make his way to Pittsburgh? Should the Steelers be regretting trading Johnson away? Let us know in the comments below!

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