Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Grins From Ear To Ear When Asked About Trading For New Wide Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been involved in trade talks all offseason, which began when they decided to trade away Diontae Johnson. This decision linked the Steelers to nearly every available wide receiver. The focal point of these rumors has been San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.

Aiyuk is coming off a tremendous 2023 season, where he was one of the league's top wide receivers. He is set to become a free agent after the 2024 season, but is currently holding in with the 49ers, refusing to play until he is offered a new deal. The 49ers have been unable to reach an agreement with Aiyuk, creating tension within the organization. Aiyuk has requested a trade, and Steelers fans are hopeful that General Manager Omar Khan can secure a deal.

On Monday, rumors surfaced that the Steelers were close to finalizing a deal for Aiyuk. However, by Tuesday, conflicting reports emerged, some stating that the Steelers were out of the running while others claimed they were still very much in play. One source even suggested that the Steelers believed they are frontrunners to land Aiyuk.

Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media on Wednesday morning. When asked about plans to add a wide receiver to the depth chart, he did not provide a direct answer, but gave a knowing smile, hinting that a move involving Aiyuk might be imminent.

"I'll let you guys speculate on that," Tomlin stated while grinning.

The Steelers' wide receiver room has been a cause for concern among fans and pundits, especially after the trade of Johnson. Many wondered how the Steelers would fill the void left by Johnson's departure. Aiyuk would be an excellent fit, but acquiring him won’t come cheap. 

Aiyuk wants top dollar in the wide receiver market, and the Steelers have reportedly offered him a massive deal that he likes. Allegedly, Aiyuk wants to join Pittsburgh via trade, leaving it up to Khan to get the deal done.

Steelers Leaked Offer To The 49ers For Brandon Aiyuk

Reports indicate that the Steelers made a substantial offer to the 49ers, including a second-round pick and a couple of players. However, the 49ers were not thrilled with the offer, wanting different players such as George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, or a first-round pick. Khan has been hesitant to part with a first-round pick, but might do so to sweeten the deal and secure Aiyuk. Pickens and Freiermuth aren't options the Steelers are willing to give up as that would be counter productive. 

The Steelers will have to give up significant assets and pay Aiyuk a considerable amount. However, the team appears aggressive, acting as if this roster is ready to win a Super Bowl and making moves to maximize their chances. 

Bringing in a wide receiver like Aiyuk would greatly improve the Steelers' outlook for the 2024 season. Many believe the Steelers will get a trade done and land Aiyuk. It will be interesting to see if this comes to fruition.

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