Steelers In No Hurry To Get Trade Done For Rams' Cooper Kupp But Are Lurking

The Pittsburgh Steelers have now found themselves yet again tied into trade talks for a wide receiver. After a very productive 2024 offseason, the Steelers still faced significant concerns surrounding their wide receiver room, especially after trading away Diontae Johnson. While the offense has made strides under new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, questions about depth and consistency at wide receiver have continued to surface. Despite these concerns, the Steelers are off to a solid start sitting at 5-2, and now with Russell Wilson leading a rejuvenated offense.

Through the first seven games of the season, the Steelers’ offense has shown improvement compared to 2023. While the unit started slowly, Smith’s game plan has begun to click, leading to more balanced and effective play on the field. The return of Wilson has added stability, but inconsistencies in the wide receiver corps have been evident at times, highlighting the need for an additional playmaker to complement George Pickens. These lingering issues are why Pittsburgh has once again found themselves in trade talks to bolster their receiving options.

The newest name on the rumor mill is Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp. NFL insider Mike Florio recently revealed intriguing details about how the Steelers are approaching potential trade talks with the Rams for Kupp. 

"The Steelers are fascinating to me because they like to lurk," Florio said Wednesday on NBC's Pro Football Talk. "They like to hover. They like to wait to swoop in and get a bargain. They're not going to go too quickly, no sudden moves."

The Steelers seem to have some level of interest in Kupp. However, they're careful not to appear desperate in their search for a wide receiver. Florio explained that's exactly how Pittsburgh has handled all of their trade talks.

Florio further elaborated on how the Steelers are managing their approach to this potential trade, taking a measured and patient stance as they explore their options.

"They don't like to be perceived as being desperate in a situation like that," Florio said. "If it means they don't get the guy, so be it. That's the best way to get a good deal. You act like you don't want it."

While Pittsburgh isn't rushing to make a deal, they are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation. The potential addition of Kupp would not only fill a key need at wide receiver but also elevate the Steelers' offense as they aim for a deep playoff run. 

It's worth noting that Pittsburgh hasn't won a playoff game since the 2016 season, adding urgency to their pursuit of a stronger roster.

Steelers Have A Serious Super Bowl Shot In 2024

The Steelers have been aggressive in how they've built the team, especially with the return of Wilson at quarterback. They believe they have a legitimate shot at competing for a Super Bowl in 2024. Adding Kupp to the offense would undoubtedly raise their chances, providing another weapon for Wilson and adding balance to the passing attack.

The Steelers' offense has shown improvement when they've opened up the passing game with Wilson, but there’s still significant pressure on Pickens to carry the receiving load. Concerns about the lack of a true wide receiver two remain, and acquiring Kupp could be the solution that takes this offense to the next level.

Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III have contributed respectably to the offense, but both need to show more consistency. If the Steelers were able to trade for Kupp, it would be a game-changer. While Kupp has battled injuries recently and is coming off another one, he's now healthy, and when at full strength, he's still one of the league’s top wide receivers, even at 31.

It will be interesting to see if Khan’s patient approach leads to a trade for the star receiver. Adding Kupp to the roster would not only boost the passing game but could also push the Steelers into serious contention.

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