Steelers Actively "Trying To" Acquire A Wide Receiver From Pool Of Interesting Names

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been desperate for an elite wide receiver ever since the start of training camp. Throughout the month of August, General Manager Omar Khan was in contact with the San Francisco 49ers, as he was trying to find a way to bring Brandon Aiyuk to Pittsburgh. Obviously that didn't work out, as Aiyuk signed a new deal to stay on the West Coast, and the Steelers entered the 2024 season with a less than desirable group at wide receiver.

Khan didn't stop at Aiyuk. He also tried to acquire Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders. This didn't work either, as Adams chose to go to the New York Jets where he just lost to Pittsburgh by 22 points. The next rumor that circulated was the Los Angeles Rams apparently shopping star receiver Cooper Kupp, but after their Week 8 victory, it's hard to imagine they become sellers at the trade deadline.

Despite all of this, the Steelers still need help at wide receiver. They might not land a big name star like many fans had hoped for, but Khan should be able to find some sort of upgrade at the position ahead of the deadline. NFL insider Dianna Russini was asked on the most recent episode of her podcast Scoop City where or not she thought Pittsburgh would do anything, and she seemed fairly confident that they will.

"I do," Russini said. "I think the Steelers are trying to do something. Why don't I rip through some of the receivers that the Steelers could possibly look at -- let's just say they have a board. I don't think they have a board, but let's say they have a board. Darius Slayton, Diontae Johnson, Christian Kirk, DeMarcus Robinson, KJ Osborn, Tyquan Thornton, Kendrick Bourne."

Obviously, Russini was just giving her list of names that may be available for trade. Pittsburgh would not be able to trade for Diontae Johnson since they just traded him during the 2024 offseason - and the NFL has a rule where a team can't trade for a player they traded away within the last two years. However, every other name listed by the insider seems like it could be a reasonable acquisition for Pittsburgh.

Both Darius Slayton and Christian Kirk are names that fans have probably already heard before when it comes to possible additions at the trade deadline. However, the trio of receivers from the New England Patriots is interesting. KJ Osborn was successful during his time with the Minnesota Vikings, and he just hasn't been used in New England. Tyquan Thornton is a former second-round pick who has struggled to find his footing in the league and should be cheap. Kendrick Bourne is likely the most notable name from New England, and he has been extremely effective throughout his career, despite limited opportunities.

Steelers Named A Great Fit For Kendrick Bourne

Pittsburgh could have used a high-profile receiver like Adams or Aiyuk, but a cheaper, effective receiver like Bourne could also get the job done. Russini's co-host, Chase Daniel, believes that would be the best name for the Steelers to acquire out of the options she listed.

"Kendrick Bourne sort of fits that mold. Quick, twitchy slot guy," Daniel said.

Bourne has spent time with the 49ers and the Patriots throughout his NFL career, and he has only been targeted five times so far in the 2024 season. He has played in just three games, and it might be time for his career in New England to come to a close. The organization isn't using him, so he shouldn't have a large price tag at the deadline. This seems like a move Khan could easily make if he wanted to.

What receiver would you like to see in black and gold? Let us know in the comments below!

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