The Pittsburgh Steelers have not found a way to escape the NFL news cycle throughout the 2025 offseason. The original splash made by the team was trading for DK Metcalf after a deal was agreed upon with the Seattle Seahawks. The fan base was ecstatic about the move, especially because it meant that George Pickens would finally have a legitimate partner-in-crime. That was short-lived however, as General Manager Omar Khan ended up dealing the disgruntled wideout to the Dallas Cowboys not too long after the 2025 NFL Draft. Now, the organization is right back in the same place it was to begin the 2024 campaign.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation.com (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Former Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (#14) makes a one-handed grab as the team warms up on the field at Acrisure Stadium prior to a 2022 preseason game in Pittsburgh, PA.
After the decision was made to trade Pickens, many were curious as to what the Steelers' plan was for the wide receiving corps. After the move, the competition to be the second option included Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and veteran Robert Woods. Pat Freiermuth could also be the second-most targeted individual, but he is the team's top tight end, and is not a member of the receivers' room, per se.
As training camp nears, rumors will continue to swirl about Pittsburgh and what the plan may be when it comes to making the offense better. There are a handful of veteran wideouts available on the free agency market, but with a plethora of draft picks in 2026, no one can rule out the possibility of Khan making yet another trade to acquire a pass-catcher. A new candidate may be coming to light after some contractual issues have started for the Washington Commanders.
#Commanders All-Pro WR Terry McLaurin was not at practice today as offseason workouts continue. He had been a full participant previously and is entering the final year of his contract.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) May 21, 2025
Worth monitoring as Phase 3 of Washington’s program kicks off in under a week… pic.twitter.com/JgQAh4eC6y
Washington recently made a trade for Deebo Samuel, but there is no doubt that Terry McLaurin is the organization's best threat on offense. It's too early to suggest that McLaurin will request to be moved, but the situation is something to monitor. If the Commanders end up believing that the 29-year-old is not worth a big contract, the decision could be made to get some draft capital for him while they still can.
The Steelers are in an ideal position to acquire another wide receiver due to a projected 12 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. A respected veteran like McLaurin may be worth significant capital and a new contract. A combination of he and Metcalf would be lethal, and there are no sincere concerns regarding McLaurlin's personality and maturity, unlike Pickens.
Will Newton / Getty Images
Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (#17) runs out of the tunnel prior to playing a professional football game at home.
It wouldn't be surprising if some teams throughout the NFL get the idea that McLaurin could possibly be unhappy with his current situation. Washington, however, is expected to have a ton of cap space in 2026 and beyond. With a second-year quarterback in Jayden Daniels on a rookie deal, it shouldn't be too complicated to accommodate whatever McLaurin's camp is looking for.
Each franchise operates a business, however, and there could be internal discussions going on that have led the Commanders to hold off on giving the talented wideout another contract. If and when trade rumors do begin to come alive, the Steelers will be one of the first teams mentioned due to the current necessity for an unquestioned second option opposite of Metcalf.
Gene J. Puskar / AP photo
Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf sits up at the podium as he talks to Pittsburgh reporters after being traded for during the 2025 offseason.
Steelers Can't Make The Same Mistake That They Did In 2025
Pickens was injured later on in the 2024 campaign, which ended up completely stalling the offense. He was the most talented play-maker within the unit, but his a hamstring issue kept him out of the lineup. The offensive group sputtered and never looked the same, even after Pickens returned. The team cannot have a questionable second option behind Metcalf. He must be formidable, and it's quite possible that McLaurin could enter the conversation soon.
Do you think the Steelers should reach out to the Commanders about McLaurin? Let us know in the comments below!
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