Steelers' Coveted "Deep Down The Field Threat" Could Be Currently Waiting In Philadelphia

The Pittsburgh Steelers could have an opportunity to make a major addition to their offense if the Philadelphia Eagles decide to sell before the NFL trade deadline. With Pittsburgh looking for more help at wide receiver and Philadelphia facing questions about its direction, DeVonta Smith is an intriguing name to watch if the Eagles become willing to listen to offers.

Insider Ray Fittipaldo discussed the possibility on the Steelers Collective podcast, explaining why a potential move for Smith would make sense for Pittsburgh.

“So, I don't know if he's available, but if he is, to me, that's the move... They need that deep down the field threat,” Fittipaldo said.

That is the biggest reason Smith would be an interesting target. The former Heisman award winning receiver has established himself as a productive NFL playmaker, and his ability to stretch the field would give Aaron Rodgers another dangerous weapon. However, Smith has not been confirmed as available, and a Steelers pursuit remains hypothetical. If Philadelphia decides to move established players before the November 10 deadline, Pittsburgh could explore what it would take to acquire a receiver who could strengthen its passing attack.

Pittsburgh's need for wide receiver help has become increasingly difficult to ignore. The Steelers acquired Michael Pittman Jr. during the offseason, but injuries have complicated their plans. Pittman and Roman Wilson are on injured reserve, and Ben Skowronek has also dealt with injuries. That has placed additional pressure on DK Metcalf and rookie Germie Bernard. Although Bernard has shown encouraging flashes, adding another established receiver could give Rodgers more options as Pittsburgh pushes through the second half of the season.

Smith would bring a different dimension to the offense. The former first-round pick is a polished route runner who can create separation and threaten defenses downfield. Pairing him with Metcalf would give Pittsburgh two receivers with different strengths, making it more difficult for opposing defenses to focus on one player. Metcalf's physical style can command attention from opposing cornerbacks, while Smith's ability to get open could create opportunities for Rodgers to attack defenses at multiple levels. That combination could also open up space for Bernard, the tight ends and Pittsburgh's running backs.

The Steelers do not necessarily need a blockbuster trade to improve their receiving corps, but Smith would represent a significant addition in proven talent if Philadelphia were willing to negotiate a reasonable deal. Smith's health, however, complicates the possibility. The Eagles receiver has been dealing with a hamstring injury that has kept him out of action, creating uncertainty about when he could return. Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni has also left open the possibility of shutting Smith down for the remainder of the season, adding another wrinkle to potential trade discussions. If Philadelphia believes the best course of action is to prioritize his recovery, the organization might be reluctant to move him while his playing status remains unclear. The Eagles would also have to weigh the value of any offer against the difficulty of replacing one of their most talented offensive players.

For Pittsburgh, the injury would require careful consideration. The Steelers need help now, and acquiring a receiver who cannot immediately contribute would not necessarily solve their short term problems. Before surrendering valuable draft capital, the organization would need confidence in Smith's recovery and a clear understanding of his medical outlook. Still, the injury would not automatically rule out a deal. If Philadelphia becomes motivated to move players and Pittsburgh believes Smith can return to full health, the Steelers could view the situation as an opportunity worth exploring. His availability, contract and recovery timeline would all factor into whether a trade makes sense.

Steelers Must Weigh A Win Now Move Against Draft Capital

There is another consideration for General Manager Omar Khan, the cost of acquiring Smith. Philadelphia would have little reason to give away a proven receiver without receiving meaningful compensation, especially if the Eagles still view him as part of their long term plans. Pittsburgh must determine whether adding Smith would justify the draft capital required to get a deal done. The Steelers have already invested in their receiving group by acquiring Pittman, and another major move would represent a commitment to improving the offense around Rodgers. For now, there is no confirmation that Pittsburgh has pursued Smith or that the Eagles are prepared to trade him. However, if Philadelphia opens the door to moving established talent, the Steelers would have a compelling reason to investigate.

#SteelerNation