Steelers Encouraged To Pull Off Big Trade For All-Pro Wide Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers have found themselves in a tough spot at wide receiver, a situation that began when they traded away star wideout Diontae Johnson early in the 2024 offseason. While Johnson was a talented receiver, Pittsburgh saw an opportunity to move on from a disgruntled player and bolster their secondary by acquiring cornerback Donte Jackson in return.

Although the secondary improved, losing a skilled route runner like Johnson left a void in the wide receiver corps. This put significant pressure on star receiver George Pickens, who, for the first time in his career, is now tasked with being Pittsburgh’s only true threat at the position. Defenses have taken notice, scheming to neutralize Pickens since the Steelers lack other reliable weapons behind him.

As a result, rumors and reports have circulated that the Steelers are targeting big-name wide receivers to strengthen the position. The most recent target was Davante Adams, but after the Steelers missed out and he was traded to the New York Jets, Pittsburgh’s focus has shifted elsewhere. On Thursday's episode of Get Up, Devin McCourty suggested an idea the Steelers might want to seriously consider to improve their receiving corps.

"[Adam Schefter] said the wide receivers are at a premium, so I want to keep it right there. DeAndre Hopkins goes to the Pittsburgh Steelers," McCourty said. "While [Mike] Tomlin is flirting about playing Russell Wilson, hopefully that he's able to get the ball out and get it on the edge a little bit more." 

McCourty floated this idea as it seems Mike Tomlin is prepared to hand the starting job back to a healthy Russell Wilson. With Wilson expected to lead the offense, the Steelers will likely look to expand their passing game.

However, they'll need more help on the outside. McCourty believes Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins would be the ideal addition, providing a much-needed complement to Pickens and giving the Steelers a true number two option. He also highlighted a surprising stat — the Steelers' leading receiver outside the numbers has been running back Najee Harris, underscoring the team’s need for a wideout upgrade.

"Do you guys know who the second leading receiver is on the Pittsburgh Steelers outside the numbers? No, you have no idea because it's Najee Harris," McCourty said. "They need help on the outside, no doubt. And a guy like DeAndre Hopkins, who wins contested passes, he can go out there and win and really help them."

Hopkins has been linked to the Steelers for a while now. Once considered one of the NFL's best wide receivers, Hopkins, now 32, has faced injuries, leaving many questioning how much he has left in the tank. 

Currently with the Titans, Hopkins is stuck in an underperforming offense, wasting the twilight of his career.

Steelers Would Be Wise To Trade For Titans' DeAndre Hopkins

The Titans, who are likely looking toward the future, have little need for an aging receiver. It makes sense they’d be open to moving Hopkins before the trade deadline. Steeler Nation will certainly be keeping an eye on this possibility. So far in 2024, Hopkins has hauled in 14 passes for 175 yards and one touchdown over six games.

While his numbers aren’t eye-popping, they’d still be an upgrade for the Steelers’ struggling receiving corps. A former All-Pro, Hopkins would bring a much-needed spark to the offense and provide Wilson with the playmaker he needs. 

The cost to acquire him likely wouldn’t be steep, making a trade seem more realistic. It will be interesting to see if the Titans are willing to do business with Pittsburgh and whether a deal could come together, as many believe Hopkins could give the Steelers' offense the boost it needs.

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