The Pittsburgh Steelers made several bold moves this offseason, including overhauling their quarterback room. They signed veteran Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the league minimum and followed that by trading for Justin Fields. Wilson is expected to start, with Fields serving as his backup. However, concerns have arisen about the quality of the wide receivers Wilson will be targeting.
AP
Quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson warming up at the 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers' OTAs.
The Steelers' wide receiver corps has been a source of worry since the team traded away Diontae Johnson. While they still have George Pickens, who is expected to be a star, there’s a significant drop-off in talent behind him. This has led the Steelers to explore nearly every option on the market for additional wide receiver help.
The Steelers were heavily involved in trade discussions for San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk, with reports suggesting they were close to acquiring the star. Ultimately, Aiyuk remained with the 49ers. Despite this setback, the Steelers' pursuit of wide receiver reinforcements isn't over. As the 2024 season begins, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler revealed that the team may attempt an in-season trade for Denver Broncos wideout Courtland Sutton.
"Pittsburgh will also likely monitor the landscape for potential developments leading up to the trade deadline. Several teams have tried to trade for Denver's Courtland Sutton, but the Broncos have not been willing to trade him... so far. Perhaps Pittsburgh will entertain a reunion between Sutton and Wilson."
Sutton's name has surfaced in trade rumors throughout the offseason. The Steelers were eager to add depth at wide receiver and were reportedly one of several teams that reached out to the Broncos about Sutton's availability. While the Broncos weren't interested in moving him at the time, Fowler hinted that Steelers General Manager Omar Khan could work his magic with an in-season trade.
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
General Manager Omar Khan speaks to the press at the Pittsburgh Steelers' UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
The Broncos decided to part ways with Wilson after just two seasons, despite signing him to a massive five-year, $242 million deal. They ultimately paid millions to move on from Wilson. Now, with rookie quarterback Bo Nix under center, Head Coach Sean Payton is hesitant to trade away Sutton, preferring to keep a key weapon for his young quarterback.
Sutton has spent the past two seasons playing alongside Wilson, and trading for him would significantly elevate the Steelers' wide receiver group. Over those two seasons, Sutton recorded 123 receptions for 1,601 yards and 12 touchdowns, with 10 of those touchdowns coming in 2023.
The Steelers would likely need to offer the Broncos a substantial trade package, as Denver seems to value Sutton highly—especially with the expected rise of rookie quarterback Nix. The Broncos are keen on providing Nix with plenty of support as he develops. However, that doesn't mean Khan can't make something happen to get Sutton to the Steel City.
Steelers Will Likely Be In The Mix For A WR Trade During The 2024 Season
Whether it's Sutton or another player, the Steelers will certainly be active around the trade deadline and throughout the season. Steeler Nation can expect plenty of rumors and speculation as the season progresses.
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Former Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson and wide receiver Courtland Sutton celebrate a touchdown.
Khan has shown he's willing to be aggressive, leaving his mark with bold moves. He views this team as a Super Bowl contender and is prepared to go all in with the current roster. If an opportunity arises, Khan will explore it. Sutton and other wide receivers remain names to watch for a potential in-season trade.
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