Steelers Defying Expectations, There's Still Hope For A Brandon Aiyuk Deal: "Keeping It 50-50"

The Pittsburgh Steelers have reportedly been in the mix to make a trade with San Francisco 49ers wide receiver, Brandon Aiyuk, the entire offseason. While much of the fan base has been enthusiastic about the potential move, the less-than-stellar preseason so far is making them desperate. The Steelers' offense hasn't looked effective, scoring only 15 points in two preseason games in 2024. 

While much of the concern is directed at the offensive line, the wide receiver two (WR2) spot remains one of the most significant areas of need. The Steelers decided to trade an unhappy Diontae Johnson, and many expected that they would use an early 2024 draft pick for a replacement. They waited until the third round to choose Roman Wilson. While Wilson has a lot of potential, he is injured and thus unable to show that he is ready.    

That is where Aiyuk entered the conversation. Early in the offseason, the Steelers were named a potential landing spot. As other teams have come and gone, the Steel City has remained. Reportedly, Aiyuk wants to come to Pittsburgh and was happy with negotiations, but the 49ers weren't satisfied with the trade compensation. 

Adam Schefter, the NFL insider from ESPN, recently said that he expects this situation to be resolved by the end of this week. He thinks Aiyuk and the 49ers will come to an agreement, regardless of whether that is for him to stay or go before the 49ers and Steelers play their final preseason games. 

Many feel that if the deal hasn't happened by now, then it isn't going to happen, and they are counting Pittsburgh out. But Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly, from The Pat McAfee Show, says not so fast. He joined Joe Starkey on 93.7 The Fan's Joe Starkey Show, where he was asked who would be the WR2 during the Week 1 game against the Atlanta Falcons and what the percentage is that it will be Aiyuk. 

"Best case scenario would be that guy in San Francisco," said Kaboly with a chuckle. "They're going to need someone, Joe. I'm still keeping it 50/50."

Kaboly said that he expects Van Jefferson to step in as WR2 as things stand right now. That is concerning, given that none of the depth pieces seem capable of consistently taking the heat off of George Pickens. This worry about this critical position has fans throwing out every remotely possible player, including former Steelers receiver, JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Steelers General Manager Omar Khan doesn't appear flustered by the pressure. Kaboly has said that Khan is playing the long game and has the upper hand in the deal. If Aiyuk doesn't sign with the Steelers, Kaboly said he thinks the franchise will have to go get someone off the waiver wire; they just can't go into the season like this. 

Steelers' Roman Wilson's Injury Not Serious

It was devastating to see Wilson suffer an ankle injury during the team's padded practice down in Latrobe. Wilson, who helped Michigan win a National Championship in 2023, brings a lot of promise. He has solid speed, soft hands, and good separation skills. 

Unfortunately, an injury like this hurts more than the player; it stunts the chemistry Wilson would otherwise develop with his fellow offensive players on the field. It also gives some of the other depth players a shot at leap-frogging over him and requiring him to catch up when he returns. 

Wilson has indicated that the injury is not severe and has been shown moving around without his walking boot. 

What do you think the chance is that the Steelers will still trade for Aiyuk? Click to comment below. 

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