Steelers' Greatest Threats To Steal Raiders' Star Davante Adams Via Trade Revealed

The Pittsburgh Steelers and their fans endured a saga that stretched throughout the entire 2024 offseason. Rumors swirled that the team was involved in trade talks with the San Francisco 49ers for star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. At several points, Steeler Nation believed they had pulled off the trade to acquire Aiyuk.

Now, with the Steelers sitting at 3-1 through the first four games, concerns about the lack of a reliable wide receiver two appear to have been well-founded. While George Pickens has lived up to expectations, fans remain worried about the lack of production from other receivers.

Calvin Austin III has stepped up with a strong start to the season, but fans aren't yet convinced he can fill the role. On Tuesday, Las Vegas Raiders star wide receiver Davante Adams officially requested a trade, reigniting optimism that Omar Khan and the Steelers' front office could be working on a way to bring Adams to the Steel City.

The price that it would cost to take on Adams contract for the 2024 season sits at $13.5 million currently. At the deadline, the cost would go down to $8.6 million. Each game that goes by, Adams becomes a little bit cheaper. 

While the Steelers are expected to be involved in trade discussions for Adams, several other teams also have a pressing need for a top-tier wide receiver. These teams could pose significant threats to the Steelers' chances of landing Adams. Here are a few of the biggest contenders.

Kansas City Chiefs

The team that might need Adams the most is the Kansas City Chiefs. After losing their top wide receiver Rashee Rice on Sunday, it's expected he'll be sidelined for some time. The Chiefs are in desperate need of reinforcements at the position, and adding Adams would be a huge boost to their offense. 

Knowing Super Bowl windows don't stay open for long, Kansas City could aggressively pursue the star veteran if the opportunity arises. However, they'd need to restructure several contracts to make room for Adams under the salary cap.

New York Jets 

The New York Jets are another team that could be in the mix for Adams. With Aaron Rodgers healthy, expectations are high. While their offense already has playmakers at wide receiver, adding Adams could elevate their chances of making the most of their Super Bowl window with Rodgers. 

There's also the strong connection between Rodgers and Adams from their time together with the Green Bay Packers. Financially, the Jets are in a position to afford him right now, making them a serious contender in the sweepstakes.

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are another team that could enter the race for Adams due to their need for a true star wide receiver. While they have players who have produced, the Bills lack a bona fide superstar at the position. 

Adding Adams would significantly improve their Super Bowl chances. However, the biggest hurdle for the Bills is their limited cap space, even less than the Chiefs. To make room for Adams, they'd need to undergo some major contract restructuring.

Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns have $44,122,155 in cap space for the 2024 season, meaning they can easily afford Adams. With their team struggling overall, adding a star like Adams could provide a much-needed boost to their offense. 

Although the Browns already have talent at wide receiver, they were reportedly interested in Aiyuk this offseason, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see them make a push for Adams as well.

Washington Commanders

The final team posing a significant threat to the Steelers' hopes of landing Adams is the Washington Commanders. Few pundits expected the Commanders to contend this season, but after a 3-1 start and impressive play from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, they may be looking to add a veteran star to pair with Terry McLaurin. 

The Commanders were previously involved in the Aiyuk trade saga, so it’s likely they still want to bolster their wide receiver corps. With $25,473,658 in cap space, they can afford to make a move for Adams.

Can The Steelers Afford Davante Adams?

As it stands, the Steelers would be tight on cap space to acquire Adams, but they can always find ways to adjust their financials. The salary cap is flexible and can be maneuvered as needed. According to reports, there isn’t an immediate urgency for the Raiders to trade Adams; the longer the situation drags on, the cheaper he may become. 

Technically, the Steelers could make a move for him, and it’s likely they will at least reach out to explore potential options. The Raiders are reportedly seeking a package centered around a second-round pick. The Steelers were eager to acquire Aiyuk this offseason but couldn't seal the deal. Now, they have another opportunity to land a star wide receiver.

#SteelerNation