It would be surprising if the Pittsburgh Steelers didn't make some kind of move, or multiple, prior to the league's 2026 trade deadline. General Manager Omar Khan has a reputation for not sitting back and watching, so the next couple of weeks could be interesting. The team is 5-2 with a deep playoff run on its mind. Positionally, it seems like it would make the most sense to upgrade at wide receiver and/or cornerback. The front office has nine projected 2027 draft picks to work with, so getting aggressive is possible. Offensively, any newcomer who could help Aaron Rodgers would be a plus.
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Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) points in the direction of one of his teammates as the group practices during a 2025 training camp work out at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Injuries have plagued the Steelers' wide receiver position. Both Roman Wilson and Michael Pittman Jr. are on Injured Reserve (IR), so Germie Bernard has had to step up. It certainly would not hurt for Pittsburgh to explore the market with the hope of bringing in a significant talent. That is why is was notable when ESPN linked Khan and Co. to several names on Wednesday morning.
Jeremy Fowler wrote about some intel regarding guys that could be on the move. The Steelers were actually connected to three pass-catchers, who should all get the attention of the fan base.
1.) Brian Thomas Jr. - Jacksonville Jaguars
It has long been speculated that the Jacksonville Jaguars could be interested in dealing the former first-round pick in Brian Thomas Jr. Pittsburgh could be the perfect spot for him.
"League execs are sensing the end for BTJ in Jacksonville, as his targets and playing time have dipped. How Jacksonville has struggled to make this relationship work is still a mystery," Fowler wrote. "But that plan for Thomas hasn't materialized this season. And teams are circling with interest. Kansas City and Pittsburgh are among those exploring receiver help."
Compensation will have to be right for Khan in this scenario. The wideout has severely underperformed, but the Jaguars will want to get some kind of return on the investment that they made back in 2024 when he was selected.
2.) Josh Downs - Indianapolis Colts
This hasn't been the first time that Josh Downs has been referenced when it comes to the Steelers. The shifty pass-catcher could be a great option for Pittsburgh in the slot.
"The Colts opened the floodgates with the Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner deals, and Downs -- the team's best receiver with Alec Pierce out -- has garnered interest from multiple teams. He's a 2027 free agent," Fowler noted.
With potentially a handful of teams inquiring about Downs, the asking price may suddenly change and increase. This is when the Steelers will have to decide if the juice is worth the squeeze. Indianapolis is in full fire sale mode, so the wideout is likely to get moved.
Trevor Ruszkowski / Imagn Images
Oct 18, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) catches the ball against Tennessee Titans linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. (53) during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium.
3.) Quentin Johnston - Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers have been quite the mystery in 2026. Winless through six contests, the front office has not given any indication that selling off pieces is on the horizon. However, it would be foolish to think that someone like Quentin Johnston won't be shipped off very soon.
"Teams have considered Johnston a trade candidate dating back to March. The Chargers shut that down at the time and even exercised his fifth-year option. But the Chargers' 0-6 plight is resurfacing his name in league circles."
Johnston has dealt with injuries and been inconsistent throughout his career; however, the Steelers adding a big-bodied receiver who stands at 6'2" could be helpful in the long run. This would be a slight investment, though, as Johnston had his fifth-year option picked up and has a fully-guaranteed salary for 2027.
Steelers Likely Need To Make A Big Move
With rumors circulating about Pittman possibly needing surgery, Pittsburgh could quickly be without it's initially-projected No. 2 wide receiver for the rest of the year. Once the deadline passes, it becomes almost impossible to bring in a formidable player who can become a difference-maker. Whether it is one of the three mentioned by Fowler, or someone who comes out of nowhere, Khan and the Steelers are going to need to make a significant acquisition at some point.
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