The Pittsburgh Steelers have an important decision approaching as the NFL trade deadline gets closer. General Manager Omar Khan has been linked to several potential moves, but one name continues generating considerable interest among Steelers fans. Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., a 2024 first-round pick, could provide Pittsburgh with another dangerous offensive weapon. Now, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly has shared new details about the organization's previous interest in Thomas and what a potential trade might require.
Action Images via Reuters / Paul Childs
Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. runs onto the field before a game in London against the Houston Texans in 2026.
Pittsburgh has started the 2026 season with a 5-2 record following Sunday's 16-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints in Paris. Head Coach Mike McCarthy has helped establish a winning foundation, but the offense still has significant room for improvement. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers admitted as much following the victory, expressing frustration with Pittsburgh's offensive execution. Adding another talented receiver could give Rodgers an important weapon as the Steelers prepare for a difficult stretch.
Kaboly recently discussed Pittsburgh's interest in Thomas during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan. The longtime Steelers insider confirmed that the organization previously had interest in acquiring the Jaguars receiver, although he has not heard anything suggesting recent developments. His comments also offered an interesting perspective on how aggressively Khan should approach the deadline.
"They were, they were. I really haven't heard anything recently about it," Kaboly said. "It could be a guy we really aren't even thinking about, too."
That admission provides some clarity about Pittsburgh's reported pursuit of Thomas. The Steelers have shown interest, according to Kaboly, but there is no confirmation that discussions remain active. That distinction matters because trade speculation can quickly create expectations that do not necessarily reflect what organizations are actually considering.
Still, Thomas represents an intriguing possibility for Pittsburgh. The young receiver entered the NFL with significant expectations after Jacksonville selected him in the first round of the 2024 draft. His combination of size, speed, and explosive-play potential makes him an attractive target for teams searching for additional offensive production. He also had 1,282 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in his rookie season.
For the Steelers, the appeal is obvious. Pittsburgh has DK Metcalf as an established receiving threat, but adding another dangerous option could create additional challenges for opposing defenses. Rodgers would benefit from having multiple receivers capable of threatening defenses rather than relying too heavily on a limited number of playmakers.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Aaron Rodgers throws to DK Metcalf during a win over the Cleveland Browns during the 2025 season.
Kaboly also explained why he believes Pittsburgh should prioritize immediate improvements if the team continues winning. With a favorable record and legitimate divisional aspirations, he sees an opportunity for Khan to approach the deadline aggressively rather than focusing exclusively on future seasons.
"But for me, if you're 6-2 and you're at the bye and you have a legit shot at winning the division and a tough schedule on paper ahead here, I'm all in this year," Kaboly said. "I'm going to who can help them right now and worry about next year, next year. That would be Brian Thomas."
Steelers' Brian Thomas Jr. Trade Possibility Comes With Interesting Price Question
Perhaps the most intriguing part of Kaboly's assessment involves what Pittsburgh might need to surrender. The insider believes a potential deal for Thomas could require considerably less draft capital than many observers might expect. Specifically, Kaboly suggested a Day 3 draft selection could potentially be enough.
That would represent an attractive price for a receiver with Thomas' pedigree and potential. However, it is important to recognize that Kaboly's estimate is not a confirmed asking price from Jacksonville. The Jaguars have not been established as willing to accept such an offer, and any actual negotiations could produce entirely different demands.
Nevertheless, the possibility creates an interesting scenario for Khan. If Pittsburgh could acquire a talented young receiver without sacrificing premium draft capital, the organization would have reason to seriously evaluate that opportunity. Thomas could potentially help immediately while also providing value beyond the current season.
Should the Pittsburgh Steelers aggressively pursue Brian Thomas Jr. before the trade deadline? Let me know on X @anthonyghalkias.
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