The Pittsburgh Steelers and General Manager Omar Khan didn't shy away from revamping the offense as the 2024 offseason kicked off. The quarterbacks room was completely overturned as Kenny Pickett, Mitchell Trubisky and Mason Rudolph found new homes with different circumstances. At the end of the day, the events led to Russell Wilson, Justin Fields and Kyle Allen finding their unique ways to Pittsburgh. The biggest concern for the new signal-callers is certainly the wide receivers room. George Pickens will lead the way, but there isn't a solidified long-term solution behind him, even after drafting Roman Wilson.
The additions of Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins and Scotty Miller may have emphasized an internal focus on veteran presence, but there isn't a legitimate number two player to complement Pickens. Calvin Austin III may get his chance early in the 2024 campaign to prove himself, but a trade still could be coming. More than one wideout has been linked to Pittsburgh in the 2024 offseason, and holdouts throughout the summer and in training camp may paint a bigger picture regarding who is available.
The most popular name linked to the Steelers is a blossoming superstar out West. San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch has been adamant about not moving him, but it remains a possibility, no matter what report comes out.
1.) Brandon Aiyuk
After being drafted in the first round back in 2020, Brandon Aiyuk has proven himself. His fifth-year option was picked up and the wideout will be guaranteed over $14 million in 2024. The 49ers are in an interesting spot, however. Play-makers such as Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Fred Warner and Deebo Samuel all earn a hefty paycheck. Not to mention, quarterback Brock Purdy will cash in soon.
San Francisco's front office has a decision to make regarding Aiyuk. His desire to be paid what he is worth before the 2024 campaign kicks off could warrant a holdout leading to his inevitable trade. The Steelers have the future cap space available to pay him and no one should doubt the idea of him wearing the black and gold if he goes on the market.
2.) Darius Slayton
Darius Slayton from the New York Giants is an interesting option when it comes to potential receivers available via trade. The 2019 fifth-round pick wouldn't be as attractive of an acquisition as Aiyuk, but he could be exactly what the Steelers need. The pass-catcher hasn't put up All-Pro numbers as he prepares to enter his sixth season, but certainly could thrive in an Arthur Smith offense.
Slayton has over 700 receiving yards in four of his five NFL seasons while displaying a keen ability to be a productive receiver at the professional level. He wouldn't just cost the least in 2024 in terms of a trade, but will be looking for a respectable, but not egregious contract extension. Slayton might be the perfect complement to Pickens without threatening the title of top guy on the depth chart.
3.) CeeDee Lamb
Out of the players likely to be desiring a contract extension, CeeDee Lamb has to be at the top of the list. The Dallas Cowboys' ownership has been under fire throughout the 2024 offseason for not going "all-in" when it comes to the roster. Lamb might not seem like a trade candidate because he is the clear-cut top wideout on the depth chart, but a holdout could change everything.
Steelers Could Take Advantage Of Dallas' Potential Desperation To Offload A Star Player
Dallas has to potentially find a way to pay Lamb, Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons. The math might not work out and out of the trio, Lamb is probably the most expendable. Pittsburgh would have to cough up some serious draft capital while also giving Lamb a new contract, but Khan has proven he is willing to do what is necessary in order to better the team.
