The Pittsburgh Steelers have started the season strong with a 3-1 record, notching wins against the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, and Los Angeles Chargers while dropping their week four contest to Indianapolis. Despite the early success, the performances have been far from flawless, leaving room for improvement. The Steelers could benefit from strategic roster moves to maintain momentum and elevate their chances as the season progresses.
Here are five trade scenarios that could strengthen their lineup and help them stay competitive throughout the year.
Adam Thielen
The Steelers’ current wide receiver situation is far from ideal. George Pickens has emerged as a top option, but there’s a significant drop-off in production after him. Pat Freiermuth, a tight end, and Jaylen Warren (who has battled injuries all season), a running back, have become the second and third leading receivers. The lack of a true WR2 is glaring, and that’s where Adam Thielen could come in.
Thielen, currently with the Carolina Panthers, remains one of the most dependable wide receivers in the league, even at 34 years old. With over 1,000 receiving yards last season and a proven track record of consistency, Thielen could offer the Steelers a reliable second option. Opponents will inevitably start focusing their defensive efforts on Pickens, and Thielen’s presence would help ease that pressure.
As for compensation, the Steelers could likely secure Thielen for a mid-round draft pick. The Panthers are not having a great season, and Thielen has hinted at frustration with the current situation in Carolina. A fresh start in Pittsburgh could benefit both the player and the team.
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Darius Slayton
Beyond Pickens, the Steelers’ wide receiver group has not been producing at a high level. That’s where Darius Slayton, a receiver for the New York Giants, could make an immediate impact. Slayton has been a consistent performer for the Giants, with at least 700 receiving yards in four of his five seasons. Despite his proven ability, Slayton competes with younger receivers in New York.
Slayton would fit well with the Steelers’ offence, providing a reliable second option behind Pickens. His speed and ability to make plays down the field would give the Steelers a new dynamic in the passing game. The Giants might be reluctant to part ways with Slayton, but a solid trade offer could convince them otherwise, especially if they continue to struggle this season.
Securing Slayton could provide the Steelers with a long-term solution at WR2, solidifying the position for this season and beyond.
Christian Kirk
Another trade target that could elevate the Steelers’ offence is Christian Kirk from the Jacksonville Jaguars. Kirk has been a solid contributor for the Jaguars, with a 1,000-yard receiving season under his belt. However, with the Jaguars adding new weapons to their offence this season, Kirk’s role could diminish, making him a potential trade candidate.
Kirk’s versatility as a receiver would give the Steelers multiple options in their offensive schemes. He can play outside or in the slot, making him a valuable asset. Pairing him with Pickens would create a formidable duo, and Kirk’s experience could help Pickens continue to develop into a top-tier receiver.
Hunter Renfrow
If trades for Thielen, Slayton, or Kirk don’t materialise, the Steelers could seek free agency to add depth to their receiving corps. Hunter Renfrow, a free agent, would be a low-risk, high-reward option. Renfrow had a breakout season with the Raiders in 2021, recording over 1,000 receiving yards. While he’s not a WR2, Renfrow could be a reliable option in the slot, providing additional support to the passing game.
Renfrow’s ability to find open spaces and make tough catches would complement Pickens and Freiermuth. He could also compete with the current backup receivers for playing time, offering the Steelers more flexibility in their offensive schemes.
Renfrow’s experience and work ethic would make him a solid addition to the roster, even if he’s not the long-term solution at WR2. He would help the Steelers get through the season and add valuable depth to their receiving group.
DeAndre Hopkins
DeAndre Hopkins could be the perfect mid-season signing to bolster the Pittsburgh Steelers offence. While they’ve enjoyed a decisive 3-0 start, their offensive performance has lagged, ranking 24th in the league for both yards and points. This lack of production contrasts sharply with their stellar defence, which has been the best in the NFL, conceding just 229.0 yards and 8.7 points per game.
Although Calvin Austin had a breakout performance in Week 3, with 95 yards and a touchdown, the Steelers still lack a consistent wide receiver opposite George Pickens. Hopkins would provide a seasoned, reliable option for quarterback Kenny Pickett, opening up opportunities for the offence and taking pressure off Pickens.
The cost to acquire him would likely be low, and a one-year deal would allow the Steelers to strengthen their team without a long-term financial commitment. As the Titans struggle, Pittsburgh might have the chance to land Hopkins at a reasonable price before the trade deadline. His addition could significantly improve the Steelers’ offensive output and make them even stronger contenders as the season progresses.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a solid foundation, but clear areas need addressing if they want to contend this season. Improving the wide receiver position and adding depth at quarterback could make a significant difference. Trade options like Adam Thielen, Darius Slayton, DeAndre Hopkins, and Christian Kirk could provide immediate help, while Hunter Renfrow would offer reliable depth if the trades don’t come to fruition.
With the right moves, the Steelers could strengthen their lineup and position themselves as serious contenders. The front office has decisions. Acting could be the difference between a mediocre season and a playoff run.
