Ever since the Pittsburgh Steelers traded away George Pickens, many wonder if they have a plan to replace the star receiver. They had a plan in mind last offseason to replace Diontae Johnson, but their idea of landing Brandon Aiyuk turned around and bit them. Steelers Nation has a glimmer of belief that general manager Omar Khan will land a replacement for Pickens before training camp.
One trade target many are neglecting to consider is Malachi Corley. The young receiver was the third-round pick of the New York Jets during the 2024 NFL Draft. When he came out of the draft, the Steelers expressed interest. Coming out of college, Corley compared favorably to Deebo Samuel. However, things haven't materialized into success during his rookie campaign.
It's safe to scour Pittsburgh's pre-draft visits since Khan started directing the draft process in 2023.
His three draft classes have received rave reviews with mixed results on the field. They expressed plenty of interest in different players, which could result in future moves. Some interesting names received pre-draft interest from the Steelers, who could become available with a new regime in place.
Pittsburgh Steelers trade target could be obvious with former draft target: Malachi Corley
It was a season to forget for Corley. He only started one game, and he failed to have production of note. Corley totaled three catches on six targets and 16 receiving yards in nine appearances last season. That's a terrible start to his career, but he could do better with a fresh environment. The Jets were a troublesome group last year, meaning a change of scenery might work wonders.
Aaron Rodgers appears to be leaning toward signing with the Steelers. He has a slight connection with Corley since they played on the Jets last year. Since the second-year receiver failed to earn a significant role, it's unlikely he and Rodgers have much of a rapport. This young player should have some development left in the tank, even though his rookie campaign was ugly.
New decision-makers and a loaded receiving corps could push Corley out of the building.
The Jets have a new coaching staff set in place. They made plenty of moves this offseason to try and turn things around. They moved on from Rodgers, and they could be willing to trade Corley. Other pieces in New York could make the loss of this player less burdensome. The Jets have options at the receiver position, and it could make Corley's roster spot expendable.
Pittsburgh expressed countless pre-draft hours fixated on Corley last year. It's hard to imagine that intrigue has dissipated. If the Jets were willing to part with the up-and-coming receiver, the Steelers would be foolish not to consider it. Acquiring Corley wouldn't cost an arm and a leg, especially after his lackluster season. He would be a nice get-in-a-trade that wouldn't break the bank.
