Steelers Suddenly Have A Real Chance To Land One Of Russell Wilson's Favorite Wide Receivers

The Pittsburgh Steelers surprised a ton of people when they made the decision to trade wide receiver Diontae Johnson away early in the 2024 offseason. Widely regarded as one of the Steelers' top targets, Johnson's departure left a major gap in the team's receiving corps. Pittsburgh's General Manager Omar Khan has worked aggressively to try and find a suitable replacement. Reports indicate that Khan nearly landed Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers in what could have been a game-changing move, but the deal reportedly fell through at the last moment.

As the trade deadline approaches, the options for adding an impactful receiver have started to thin out. Khan has made it clear that he’s willing to get creative to upgrade the position, as evidenced by his close call with Aiyuk. Fans in Pittsburgh are growing anxious, hoping the front office can add a dynamic receiver who can complement George Pickens and take pressure off the other skill positions.

One name that has recently emerged as a potential target is Denver Broncos star wide receiver Courtland Sutton. The Broncos are reportedly open to the idea of trading Sutton, with a "50/50" likelihood according to NFL insider Tony Pauline. 

"Sources close to the situation believe there's a 50/50 chance the Denver Broncos move Courtland Sutton," Pauline wrote. "The 2018 second-round pick whose name always comes up as trade bait, has been a favorite target of Bo Nix this season, as the team is a surprising 5-3 at the midway point. Sutton is likely to renegotiate his contract after the season, as he has a base salary of $13.5 million and a cap hit of $20.1 million in the final year of his deal in 2025."

Pauline provided an in-depth look at the Broncos' stance on trading Sutton. Reportedly, while Denver isn’t actively looking to move him, they would consider it if the right offer came along—one that would clearly benefit their team. 

This balanced approach reflects the Broncos' desire to keep Sutton but also their openness to strengthen other areas if a trade could bring valuable assets in return.

"While teams have been calling about Sutton, the Broncos are in no rush to give him away and won't deal the wideout unless the offer is right and they feel they can improve their team moving forward."

Pauline's report is particularly intriguing because it suggests that while trading Sutton may not be straightforward, it’s not off the table for the Broncos. 

They’d likely want something that strengthens their current roster, which could mean they'd want a player in return. Given that big names have moved this season, there's a path for Khan to make his magic happen.

Steelers' Offense Could Get Much Better With Broncos' Courtland Sutton

Acquiring Sutton would be impactful for a few reasons. First, Wilson and Sutton have a history together and were highly productive as a duo. Second, Wilson has already reinvigorated the Steelers' passing game. Adding another playmaker alongside Pickens, Calvin Austin III, and Van Jefferson would not only bolster the wide receiver depth but also provide an immediate upgrade in offensive firepower.

While it may not be easy for the Broncos to part with rookie quarterback Bo Nix’s most reliable target, they appear open to the idea. Sutton has already recorded 29 catches for 377 yards and two touchdowns this season, and his addition would give the Steelers' offense and Wilson a significant boost.

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