The 2024 NFL trade deadline is just days away, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most aggressive teams in pursuit of a wide receiver to bolster their offense. Early on, they seemingly had a big board filled with the likes of Davante Adams, DeAndre Hopkins, and Cooper Kupp in hopes of landing a big-time playmaker for Russell Wilson. However, Adams went to the Jets, Hopkins went to the Chiefs, and Kupp seems all but assured to remain with the Rams. Off the table means off the table, and with these options no longer viable, the Steelers need to pivot quickly in order to make a meaningful move. So, who’s still on the table?
Missed Opportunities: What Could Have Been
The Steelers made it clear they wanted to bring in a star receiver to complement Wilson’s strengths as a deep passer. Here’s a quick breakdown of missed acquisitions:
- Davante Adams joined the New York Jets, adding serious firepower to their offensive roster.
- The Kansas City Chiefs added DeAndre Hopkins to give Patrick Mahomes another elite target to work with.
- The Steelers reportedly were also interested in Cooper Kupp, but the recent word is that the Rams likely have pulled him off the trade market. With the large contract and significant role, moving on from him would have been pretty difficult for Los Angeles to justify.
Off the table, these players leave the Steelers considering mid-tier yet valuable receivers who could still bring much-needed strength to their offense.
Who’s Still on the Table: Top WRs the Steelers Could Target
As the trade deadline draws near, there are a handful of quality options that remain for the Steelers. None of these players has the superstar label attached to them, but each brings a reliable skillset to the table and complements the game of Wilson:
Darius Slayton, New York Giants
- Overview: Slayton is a burner who has never been a consistent starter in New York. Thus far, he’s stretched the field or at least threatened it for the Giants, something that should benefit Wilson’s arm radius.
- Why He Fits: Slayton’s speed and ability to separate downfield would be an added dynamic to the Steelers’ offensive scheme. He is a vertical target that fits Wilson’s skills as a deep ball thrower with accuracy.
- Potential Trade Cost: Very reasonable in draft capital, given the Giants might consider trading him to save resources for other future priorities.
Mike Williams, New York Jets
- Overview: The physical and reliable receiver in Williams brings size and a catch radius that can be appealing for the Steelers in a lot of situations, especially when it comes to contested catches. After being injured on and off, Williams has shown he can be a productive target when healthy.
- Why He Fits: A physical style of play could make Wilson feel comfortable with Williams as a reliable option in a lot of short-yardage and red-zone situations where he’s also showcased the ability to make big plays.
- Potential Trade Cost: There’s a good chance Williams will be more expensive due to his productivity when healthy, but the Jets might be willing to deal him in order to build up capital for other needs.
Kendrick Bourne, New England Patriots
- Overview: Kendrick Bourne is an interesting receiver who has taken on a variety of roles throughout his career in multiple offensive schemes. Considered highly dependable for short yardage, he could help the Steelers as they explore adding some depth.
- Why He Fits: Bourne’s versatility will make him a fascinating fit for the Steelers. His sure hands and route-running skills over intermediate zones could provide some balance to the passing game in Pittsburgh.
- Potential Trade Cost: Given Bourne’s current role in the Patriots’ rotation, and given the fact that they’re in rebuilding mode, they might be open to hearing trade offers.
Steelers’ Trade Situation and Remaining Deadline Options
With Wilson at the head of the offense, it is expected that the Steelers can seriously push for a playoff berth this season. They’ve struggled for consistency on offense throughout the year, so finding an experienced receiver who could take their scoring chances to the next level will be a key factor. Recent contracts, however, have somewhat limited cap space, pushing mid-level priorities over the blockbuster addition.
While these remaining options may not be the stars that Adams, Hopkins, or Kupp would have been, each brings his own set of strengths to the table. For instance, Slayton has speed, Williams has physicality, and Bourne has versatility, all of which would positively impact Pittsburgh’s play-calling and game management.
Final Thoughts: Will Pittsburgh Make a Move
With the Steelers missing out on top targets, there are still a few viable options out there that could meaningfully contribute to their success. Adding Slayton, Williams, or Bourne could be one of those savvy transactions that improve the lineup without breaking the bank. Of course, with a looming trade deadline, fans can count on the front office making a last-minute move to address the needs of the team.
This leaves the big question: will the Steelers make that last call to bring in a wide receiver? Time will tell, but the clock is ticking.
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