While the Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t been in freefall through the opening weeks of the NFL season, there is certainly scope for improvement. The team has gone 3-2 through the first five weeks, but will now be looking to show that it has the capabilities to reach the postseason in Mike McCarthy’s first year as head coach.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike McCarthy (left) and quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during 2026 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
However, it’s impossible to escape the fact that Pittsburgh’s shortage of wide receivers is impacting their playoff hopes. Michael Pittman Jr. landing on IR, along with Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek’s recent injuries, are a big factor why the Steelers are currently +220 to make the playoffs across sports betting apps.
All signs are pointing to a potential trade before the deadline on November 10, as general manager Omar Khan attempts to give Aaron Rodgers more weapons beyond DK Metcalf and rookie Germie Bernard. Of all the names that could potentially be available, Brian Thomas Jr. is the standout candidate worth pursuing the most.
Could Steelers test Jacksonville’s resolve with Thomas Jr. trade offer?
In the AFC South, the Jacksonville Jaguars have started the season well as they look to reach the playoffs once again with Liam Coen. Both Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers have been a key part of the offense, racking up 352 and 202 receiving yards respectively, while combining for six touchdowns.
However, the same is not true of 2024 first-round pick Brian Thomas Jr. The former LSU Tiger has been targeted one time less than Meyers, yet only has 105 receiving yards through five games. That comes after a dip in his stats in his sophomore season, with him down for targets, receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
The Steelers would be investing in the wideout in his slump, but it’s a trade with plenty of upside. An impressive rookie year resulted in 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns for Thomas Jr., as he broke multiple Jaguars rookie records and earned Pro Bowl selection. If Pittsburgh can get him to bounce back, his speed and vertical threat are the kind of skills that would pair well with Metcalf’s physicality.
Reports have stated that Jacksonville is not interested in dealing their wide receiver before the trade deadline as things stand. But Pittsburgh has a wealth of draft capital following the Broderick Jones and Joey Porter Jr. trades, so perhaps Khan can test the Jaguars’ resolve with an enticing package.
Who are the alternatives for the Steelers?
Of all the names currently being touted for potential trades before the November deadline, Jauan Jennings is an alternative name who could be attainable for the Steelers. Currently on the Minnesota Vikings’ roster, his base salary of $8 million is affordable, and the wide receiver had previously been linked to the Steelers before hitting free agency in the offseason. He could now be a potential target after failing to make his mark so far for the NFC North team, with two receptions and just nine yards through five games.
Jerry Jeudy is another player to watch in the next few weeks, although whether a deal can be struck between two division rivals is a different matter entirely. If the Steelers are looking outside of the AFC North, Quentin Johnston is a potential alternative