Steelers Learn Important Detail About Omar Khan's Trade Deadline Strategy

The Pittsburgh Steelers are approaching the NFL trade deadline with an interesting decision to make, and their next three games could determine how aggressive General Manager Omar Khan becomes. Pittsburgh sits at 3-2 following its 34-22 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, with a chance to enter its bye week at 6-2. That would strengthen the argument for adding reinforcements instead of entertaining a roster shakeup. One Steelers insider believes the front office has a particular kind of deal in mind.

The Steelers have needs, especially at wide receiver, where injuries have complicated life for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Michael Pittman Jr. is on injured reserve, while Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek have also dealt with injuries. Pittsburgh could use another dependable target, but that does not mean another expensive star is coming. The distinction matters when considering what Khan might surrender.

Steelers insider Jeff Hathhorn discussed the team's thinking during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan. His assessment centered on Pittsburgh's belief that it can compete this season, provided the injury situation does not become significantly worse. He expects the Steelers to explore their options before the November 10 deadline.

"So yes, in terms of they believe they can win this year, and barring some collapse or rash of injuries outside of what we have already seen to key positions," Hathhorn said. "I do think they will be looking at the trade deadline."

That is an important distinction for a team that has not always looked convincing through five games. The Colts victory provided encouraging signs, but the Steelers still have areas where a reliable veteran could make a difference. 

Hathhorn's outlook suggests Pittsburgh is more likely to shop for solutions than abandon its plans. His comments also point toward a more measured approach than fans expecting a blockbuster might prefer.

"I think some of what they're looking for, for instance everyone says they need a WR, which they do, but you're looking for more of a temp job," Hathhorn said. "You're not looking for someone. You're not trying to bring in another huge contract. They are open to options because there are some holes they need to fill."

That description makes a short-term receiving addition interesting. Pittsburgh does not necessarily need another highly paid centerpiece alongside DK Metcalf. A dependable veteran who gets open and helps Rodgers navigate injuries could provide value without creating a long-term financial commitment. There is a difference between adding help for a playoff push and reshaping the offense around another major contract.

The schedule gives Khan a fascinating evaluation period. Pittsburgh visits the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, faces the New Orleans Saints in Paris on October 25 and hosts the Cleveland Browns on November 1. Three victories would move the Steelers to 6-2 before their Week 9 bye, with the deadline arriving November 10. That is an opportunity, not a guarantee, especially after Cleveland already beat Pittsburgh earlier this month.

A 6-2 record would make it harder to justify sitting still if injuries continue to limit the offense. Even a less impressive stretch would reveal which weaknesses require outside help. Khan can use these games to determine whether the Steelers need a receiver, defensive depth or something else entirely. The key is finding a player who fits the roster rather than making a move simply to make headlines.

Steelers Insider Doesn't Expect Patrick Queen To Be Moved

Hathhorn also offered an important distinction about what Pittsburgh could send away. In his view, the Steelers are more likely to use draft picks than trade established players from their current roster. He specifically believes linebacker Patrick Queen remains part of the team's plans and does not expect Pittsburgh to move him. That is his assessment, not confirmation that the front office has ruled out every possible offer.

For a team trying to win now, that logic makes sense. Moving a key defensive contributor would create another hole while Khan is trying to fill existing ones. Trading a pick for an affordable, short-term addition would better match the approach Hathhorn described. It would also let Pittsburgh preserve the core it believes can compete this season.

Should Omar Khan use draft picks to add immediate help for the Pittsburgh Steelers? Follow me on X @anthonyghalkias and let Steeler Nation know.

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