The Pittsburgh Steelers have found themselves tied to virtually every available wide receiver at some point in the last few months. These rumors started when the Steelers decided to trade away Diontae Johnson early in the 2024 offseason, which ignited speculation about the team's intentions at wide receiver.
Fans and pundits expressed concern over the lack of depth at wide receiver behind George Pickens, prompting the Steelers to be linked with various star players who could bolster their receiving corps. Throughout the 2024 offseason, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was frequently mentioned, and most recently, Los Angeles Rams star Cooper Kupp has emerged as a new name in the rumor mill.
In a recent episode of his podcast, Not Just Football, Cam Heyward addressed these swirling trade rumors, specifically focusing on the potential acquisition of Kupp. Heyward wasn't willing to entertain the trade talks as it has clearly been heard by the team. Heyward went on to detail why the trade talk has annoyed him.
"I don't know, and even if I did, I'm not telling you," Heyward said. "It's every week. Who are we getting this week? Who are we getting that week? Y'all just need to relax."
Heyward has some advice for Steeler Nation. He encourages fans to shift their focus away from seeking help or additional pieces and instead concentrate on the current roster.
He urges them to take a step back from the incessant trade rumors and simply enjoy what the team has.
"Let us just focus on the players that are on the Pittsburgh Steelers right now," Heyward said. "Can't keep worrying about shoulda, woulda, couldas, if this guy comes here, what is this gonna be? Just worry about the guys that are here, that are locked in for this team."
The Steelers have a solid roster, with the only real concern currently being the wide receiver position. This is why fans have been so eager and excited about the possibility of adding a star to that room. While the depth at wide receiver may not be the greatest, it’s not as dire as some fans believe.
With the return of quarterback Russell Wilson, the wide receivers have shown improvement. The Steelers reportedly want to evaluate how the wide receivers perform alongside Wilson before deciding whether to pursue a trade before the deadline. Pickens has certainly lived up to expectations, but bringing in a talented wide receiver could significantly enhance the offense’s potential.
Steelers Are Running Out Of Options At Wide Receiver
The Steelers believed they were close to acquiring Aiyuk in a trade, but at the last minute, the deal fell through. Shortly after, Davante Adams became available, yet the team missed out on that opportunity as well. Another intriguing name was DeAndre Hopkins, but the Steelers didn’t pursue him aggressively, leading many to believe they weren’t particularly interested.
As the trade deadline approaches, rumors are expected to intensify. Steelers fans feel the team is just a wide receiver away from re-entering the Super Bowl conversation. It will be fascinating to see if Omar Khan can pull off a significant move before the deadline. With Kupp now seemingly off the table and limited options available, Steelers fans will be left waiting and hoping that Khan can work his magic as he has in the past.