With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers have started making their rounds through the available wide receiver market in their continuing pursuit of a reliable addition to their receiving corps. While there were some early setbacks in possible trade discussions, Pittsburgh remains determined to add the much-needed depth and spark to its offense as it keeps options open for the final push.
Christian Kirk Deal Hits a Snag
The Steelers were once close to landing Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Christian Kirk, a league source said. Pittsburgh was deep in discussions with the Jaguars and a deal was attainable, but Kirk suffered a collarbone injury last Sunday that complicated trade talks and effectively killed any hope the Steelers had of bringing him aboard.
While that didn’t pan out, the Steelers haven’t curbed their attempts to upgrade skill players on offense. Ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, the pedal is still pinned to the floor, with several potential moves still in play as Pittsburgh seeks to bolster its receiving corps.
Steelers Interested in Mike Williams and Adam Thielen
In search of a reliable receiver, Pittsburgh has also reached out to other key players, including Jets wide receiver Mike Williams and Panthers veteran Adam Thielen. Each comes with their own unique traits that would satisfy the needs in Pittsburgh differently:
- Mike Williams: Big and with a catch radius, Williams has reportedly been a deep threat and red-zone target in reports. At 6’4″ with his contested-catch ability, he’s a valuable asset in the passing game, especially for a team like Pittsburgh looking to stretch the field. Thus far this season, production for Williams has somewhat been limited, but the potential remains really high. A change of scenery could be just what he needs to find form again.
- Adam Thielen: A seasoned route runner, Thielen has built his career on consistency and experience. Although he’s currently with the Panthers, Thielen’s knowledge and adaptability could make him an instant contributor in Pittsburgh. His veteran presence would be good for the Steelers’ young receiving corps, adding reliability when a play needs to be made.
The addition of either Williams or Thielen would grant the Steelers flexibility and experience in an area where they have faced some adversities this season.
Also Read: https://gridironheroics.com/steelers-russell-wilson-and-justin-fields-an-unlikely-duo-in-the-making/
Why the Steelers are in the hunt for a Receiver
The Steelers have consistently had one of the most inconsistent and thin wide receiver units in the league this season. Injuries and inconsistent performances have opened a void for an immediate-impact player. That kind of seasoned receiver would bring much-needed consistency to quarterback Russell Wilson’s targets while freeing up space for younger players such as George Pickens and Calvin Austin III.
- Versatile Targets: The current receiving corps in Pittsburgh is all about upside, but they need a guy to steady the ship. With a veteran presence that can be relied upon consistently, the Steelers’ offense may open up more opportunities for some of their younger receivers and give Wilson more flexibility in being able to distribute the ball across the field.
- Playoff Push: The Steelers are eager to boost their offense with a playoff position in sight. With the AFC playoff picture tight, Pittsburgh is aware of how each win is crucial, and bringing another weapon aboard for Wilson might be instrumental in keeping the Steelers’ postseason hopes alive.
What’s Next for the Pittsburgh Steelers?
This isn’t likely to stop the Steelers from continuing to shop around the league, given the deadline is less than a week out. Of course, they aren’t the only ones looking for game-changing talent, so the front office is going to have to move fast to find the right one. Then again, if that is a Williams or Thielen type, that could change the trajectory of this season entirely.
The Steelers are doing what any would do to maximize the opportunity this season, a proactive approach which has extended into the pursuit of a wideout. With the deadline on Tuesday looming, the Steel City faithful will be waiting to see whether Steelers management can pull the trigger on a deal in an attempt to get this offense in gear.
For More Great Gridiron Heroics Content
Follow me on Twitter @BRRohrbaugh and follow us @GridironHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and stay updated on the latest in NFL and College Football, click here.
