Steelers Trade Targets: 9 Players Pittsburgh Could Pursue at the 2024 NFL Trade Deadline
The NFL trade deadline is one of the most electrifying moments of the season—a last-chance saloon for contenders to plug gaps, take calculated risks, or swing the balance of power in their division. For the Pittsburgh Steelers, a franchise built on grit, defense, and clutch performances, the 2024 deadline arrives at a critical juncture. With a roster that’s competitive but not without flaws, general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin have a rare opportunity to bolster their playoff push.
But who should they target? The trade market this year is packed with intriguing names—veterans on expiring contracts, disgruntled stars seeking new scenery, and underutilized talents who could thrive in Pittsburgh’s system. Whether it’s shoring up the offensive line, adding a game-breaking wide receiver, or reinforcing the secondary, the Steelers have options. The question is: Which moves make the most sense?
In this breakdown, we’ll explore nine realistic trade targets the Steelers could pursue before the deadline, analyzing their fit, cost, and potential impact. From proven playmakers to high-upside projects, these players could be the missing pieces Pittsburgh needs to make a deep postseason run.
Why the 2024 Trade Deadline Matters for the Steelers
The Steelers enter the deadline with a 5-3 record (as of this writing), firmly in the hunt for an AFC Wild Card spot. However, their path isn’t without obstacles:
- Offensive inconsistencies: While Kenyan Drake and Najee Harris have shown flashes, the run game lacks explosiveness. The passing attack, led by Russell Wilson, has been efficient but not dominant.
- Defensive depth concerns: Injuries to key players like Minkah Fitzpatrick and T.J. Watt (if he misses time) could expose vulnerabilities in the secondary and pass rush.
- AFc competition: The Ravens, Chiefs, and Bills are all loading up. Standing pat could mean falling behind in the arms race.
Historically, the Steelers haven’t been major deadline players—Tomlin and Khan prefer building through the draft. But with a window still open for Wilson and a defense that’s elite when healthy, this year feels different. A well-timed trade could be the difference between an early exit and a Super Bowl push.
Steelers’ Biggest Needs Heading Into the Deadline
Before diving into names, let’s identify where Pittsburgh should focus its trade capital:
1. Wide Receiver
The Steelers’ WR room is young and promising, with George Pickens emerging as a star. But beyond him, the production has been inconsistent. Adding a veteran presence or a big-bodied red-zone threat would give Wilson a reliable target in clutch moments.
2. Offensive Tackle
Broderick Jones has been solid at left tackle, but the right side remains a question mark. If the Steelers want to protect Wilson and open up the run game, a proven blindside protector or a mauling right tackle could be a game-changer.
3. Cornerback
With Joey Porter Jr. developing into a shutdown corner, the Steelers still need depth. A slot corner or a press-man specialist would help against AFC passing attacks like the Bengals and Chiefs.
4. Edge Rusher Depth
Watt is a force of nature, but behind him, the production drops off. A situational pass rusher who can spell Watt and Alex Highsmith would keep the defense fresh in late-game scenarios.
5. Ruing Back
Harris has been durable but not dynamic. A change-of-pace back with home-run speed could add a new dimension to the offense.
Now, let’s look at the nine players who could address these needs—and why they’d be worth the trade capital.
9 Realistic Steelers Trade Targets at the 2024 Deadline
Not all trade targets are created equal. Some are rental players on expiring deals, while others could be long-term building blocks. We’ve ranked these based on fit, cost, and potential impact, from most to least likely.
1. WR Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Why He Fits: At 6’5”, 231 lbs, Evans is the prototypical red-zone weapon the Steelers lack. He’s a seven-time Pro Bowler with a knack for contested catches—something Wilson would love in the clutch. Evans is also playing on a one-year, $13 million deal, making him a pure rental with no long-term risk.
Trade Cost: Likely a 3rd-round pick, given Tampa’s rebuild and Evans’ age (31). The Bucs might retain some salary to sweeten the deal.
Potential Impact: Evans would immediately become the WR1 in Pittsburgh, giving the offense a true alpha receiver for the first time since Antonio Brown. His physicality would also help in the AFc North’s brutal matchups.
Risk Factor: Evans has missed time with injuries in the past, and his cap hit is steep. But for a team in “win-now” mode, it’s a worthwhile gamble.
2. OT Trent Williams (San Francisco 49ers)
Why He Fits: If the 49ers struggle out of the gate (or suffer key injuries), they might consider moving their All-Pro left tackle for a haul. Williams, 36, is still playing at an elite level and would be a massive upgrade over Pittsburgh’s current options. He’s also familiar with the AFC North from his Cinciati days.
Trade Cost: This would be expensive—likely a 1st-round pick + more, given Williams’ pedigree. The 49ers would need to be convinced they’re out of contention.
Potential Impact: Williams would transform the Steelers’ offensive line, giving Wilson the best pass protection of his career. He’d also mentor Broderick Jones, securing the position for years.
Risk Factor: High cost and age are concerns, but Williams has showo signs of decline. If the Steelers believe they’re a piece or two away, this is the kind of move that puts them over the top.
3. CB Tre’Davious White (Buffalo Bills)
Why He Fits: The Bills are in a tricky spot with White, who’s on a $16.5 million expiring deal. If they’re not contending, moving him makes sense. White is a former All-Pro and elite man-coverage corner, which fits Pittsburgh’s defensive scheme perfectly.
Trade Cost: A 2nd or 3rd-round pick, depending on how much salary Buffalo retains.
Potential Impact: White would form a dominant CB duo with Joey Porter Jr., giving the Steelers one of the best secondaries in the league. His experience against AFc passing attacks (like the Chiefs and Bengals) would be invaluable.
Risk Factor: White is coming off an Achilles tear in 2022, but he’s looked close to his old self this season. The Steelers’ medical staff would need to sign off.
4. WR Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos)
Why He Fits: Sutton is a big-bodied WR (6’4”, 216 lbs) with a physical playing style that would complement George Pickens. He’s also under contract through 2025, making him more than just a rental. The Broncos, if out of contention, might listen to offers.
Trade Cost: A 3rd or 4th-round pick, possibly with a conditional late-rounder based on performance.
Potential Impact: Sutton would give Wilson a reliable outside threat and take pressure off Pickens. He’s also a strong blocker, which would help the run game.
Risk Factor: Sutton has had inconsistent production in Denver, but a change of scenery (and a better QB) could rejuvenate him.
5. EDGE Brian Burns (Carolina Panthers)
Why He Fits: Burns is a former 1st-round pick with double-digit sack potential. The Panthers, in full rebuild mode, might shop him if they’re not getting a long-term deal done. Burns would be a perfect complement to T.J. Watt, giving Pittsburgh a lethal pass-rush duo.
Trade Cost: A 1st-round pick (or a high 2nd with sweeteners). Burns is only 26 and has a $24 million 5th-year option for 2025.
Potential Impact: Burns would elevate the Steelers’ pass rush to elite status. He’s also young enough to be a long-term piece if Pittsburgh extends him.
Risk Factor: The cost is steep, and Burns hasn’t always lived up to his draft status. But his upside is enormous in the right system.
6. RB D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears)
Why He Fits: Swift is a dynamic, versatile back who can catch passes and break big runs. The Bears might move him if they’re committed to Khalil Herbert and Trey Benson. Swift would give Pittsburgh a true home-run threat out of the backfield.
Trade Cost: A 4th or 5th-round pick, given his one-year, $4.5 million deal.
Potential Impact: Swift would revitalize the Steelers’ run game and add a new dimension to the passing attack. He’s also only 25 years old, so he could be a long-term solution.
Risk Factor: Durability has been an issue in the past, but his explosiveness is undeniable when healthy.
7. OT Tyron Smith (New York Jets)
Why He Fits: If the Jets continue to struggle, they might look to move the eight-time Pro Bowler for draft capital. Smith, 33, is still playing at a high level when healthy and would be a massive upgrade at right tackle.
Trade Cost: A 3rd or 4th-round pick, with the Jets likely retaining some salary.
Potential Impact: Smith would stabilize the offensive line and provide veteran leadership. His experience in pass protection would be crucial for Wilson.
Risk Factor: Injury history is a concern, but if he stays healthy, he’s a top-10 tackle in the league.
8. CB Rock Ya-Sin (Las Vegas Raiders)
Why He Fits: Ya-Sin is a physical, press-man corner who would thrive in Pittsburgh’s aggressive scheme. The Raiders, if out of contention, might shop him for a mid-round pick. He’s also on a team-friendly $7 million deal.
Trade Cost: A 4th or 5th-round pick.
Potential Impact: Ya-Sin would provide much-needed depth in the secondary and could push for a starting role. His man-coverage skills would be a great fit.
Risk Factor: He’s not a household name, but he’s a solid, reliable CB2 who wouldn’t break the bank.
9. WR Odell Beckham Jr. (Free Agent)
Why He Fits: Yes, OBJ is currently a free agent, but if the Steelers want to wait out the market, he could be a post-deadline signing. Beckham is a high-risk, high-reward option who, when healthy, is a game-changing talent.
Potential Cost: A one-year, incentive-laden deal (similar to his Ravens contract last year).
Potential Impact: If OBJ is fully recovered from his knee issues, he could be a steal. His route-ruing and hands would give Wilson a true WR1.
Risk Factor: Very high. Beckham hasn’t played a full season since 2019, and his durability is a major question mark. But if he’s healthy, he’s a difference-maker.
How the Steelers Should Approach the Deadline
The Steelers have $5.2 million in cap space (as of October 2024), which limits their ability to absorb large contracts. However, they can restructure deals or ask trading partners to retain salary to make a move work. Here’s their best strategy:
1. Prioritize the Offensive Line
If Trent Williams or Tyron Smith becomes available, Pittsburgh should go all-in. Protecting Wilson and improving the run game would have a ripple effect on the entire offense.
2. Add a Veteran WR
Between Mike Evans, Courtland Sutton, and Odell Beckham Jr., the Steelers have options. Evans is the safest bet, while OBJ offers the highest ceiling (with the most risk).
3. Bolster the Secondary
Tre’Davious White is the dream, but Rock Ya-Sin is a more realistic target. Either would upgrade the CB room without breaking the bank.
4. Avoid Overpaying for Edge Rushers
While Brian Burns is tempting, the cost (a 1st-round pick) might be too steep. The Steelers should only pull the trigger if they’re confident in a Super Bowl run.
5. Consider a Cheap RB Upgrade
D’Andre Swift would be a low-risk, high-reward addition if the price is right. He’d give the offense a new dimension without requiring a major investment.
Potential Trade Scenarios for the Steelers
Let’s play GM for a moment. Here are three realistic trade packages the Steelers could propose:
Scenario 1: The “All-In” Move
Trade: Steelers send a 2025 1st-round pick + 2024 3rd-round pick to the 49ers for Trent Williams (with SF retaining $8 million of his salary).
Result: Pittsburgh gets an elite left tackle to protect Wilson, while San Francisco gains assets for their rebuild. The Steelers would need to restructure a few deals to make the cap work, but it’s doable.
Scenario 2: The “Balanced Approach”
Trade: Steelers send a 2024 2nd-round pick to the Buccaneers for Mike Evans (with TB retaining $5 million).
Result: Pittsburgh adds a top-tier WR without mortgaging the future. Evans’ leadership and red-zone ability would be invaluable in the playoffs.
Scenario 3: The “Budget Boost”
Trade: Steelers send a 2025 4th-round pick to the Bears for D’Andre Swift.
Result: A low-cost, high-upside addition that improves the run game and passing attack. Swift’s versatility would make him a weekly contributor.
What the Steelers Should Avoid
Not every trade is worth making. Here are the pitfalls Pittsburgh should steer clear of:
- Overpaying for aging veterans: Players like Julio Jones (if available) or A.J. Green might seem tempting, but their decline phase isn’t worth the cost.
- Trading for QB projects: The Steelers are committed to Wilson. Bringing in a draft-and-develop QB would only create locker room confusion.
- Ignoring the cap: Pittsburgh can’t afford to take on big-money contracts without restructuring. Any trade must be cap-conscious.
- Panicking after a loss: The Steelers have a strong culture. Making a knee-jerk trade after a bad game (e.g., giving up a 1st for a WR after a loss to the Ravens) would be a mistake.
The Bottom Line: Should the Steelers Be Buyers or Sellers?
The Steelers are in a unique position. They’re not quite Super Bowl favorites, but they’re also not a team that should be selling assets. With a strong defense, a veteran QB, and a coaching staff that knows how to win, Pittsburgh should be aggressive buyers—but smart ones.
Here’s the ideal approach:
- Target one high-impact player (e.g., Trent Williams or Mike Evans).
- Add a mid-tier contributor (e.g., Rock Ya-Sin or D’Andre Swift).
- Avoid mortgaging the future—no trading multiple 1st-round picks.
- Prioritize fit over flash—bring in players who complement the system, not just big names.
If the Steelers execute this strategy, they could enter the playoffs as a legitimate AFC contender. If they stand pat, they risk being outgued by teams like the Chiefs and Ravens, who won’t hesitate to make bold moves.
Final Verdict: Who Should the Steelers Trade For?
If we had to rank the best possible targets based on impact, cost, and fit, here’s the order:
- OT Trent Williams – Elite protection for Wilson, but costly.
- WR Mike Evans – Instant WR1 with playoff experience.
- CB Tre’Davious White – Shutdown corner who fits the scheme.
- WR Courtland Sutton – Younger, cheaper alternative to Evans.
- RB D’Andre Swift – Low-risk, high-reward backfield upgrade.
The dream scenario? Landing Williams and Evans—even if it means parting with a 1st and a 3rd. That duo would transform the offense overnight. The realistic scenario? Adding Evans and Ya-Sin for a combined 2nd and 4th-round pick, giving the Steelers two major upgrades without breaking the bank.
What’s Next for Steelers Fans?
The next two weeks will be critical. Keep an eye on:
- Injury reports – If T.J. Watt or Minkah Fitzpatrick miss time, the Steelers might accelerate their plans.
- 49ers and Bucs’ records – If San Francisco or Tampa Bay fall out of contention, Williams or Evans could hit the market.
- Cap maneuvers – Expect the Steelers to restructure contracts (e.g., Cameron Heyward or Minkah Fitzpatrick) to free up space.
- Omar Khan’s history – Last year, he made a small but impactful trade (acquiring Patrick Peterson). Could he pull off something bigger this time?
One thing is certain: This is the most exciting trade deadline in years for Steelers fans. With the right moves, Pittsburgh could go from playoff team to Super Bowl dark horse. Without them, they risk being left behind in an arms race where the boldest teams advance the furthest.
Your Turn: Who Should the Steelers Trade For?
Now it’s your turn to play GM. Which of these nine trade targets excites you the most? Would you go all-in for Trent Williams, or play it safe with a mid-tier WR or CB? Sound off in the comments!
And if you’re as pumped about the Steelers’ potential as we are, share this article with your fellow fans. The trade deadline is October 29th—buckle up, because the next two weeks could change the course of the season.
Here We Go! 🏈