Steelers should trade for Lockett
While Metcalf is the better receiver and the bigger potential name to get moved, another receiver makes more sense for the Steelers at this point. With JuJu Smith-Schuster set to walk as a free agent, the Steelers will be looking for a new slot receiver to field in 2022. The Seahawks just so happen to have one of the better options there who could realistically be traded now that Wilson is in Denver.
Tyler Lockett has been a favorite target of Wilson’s for years. With Wilson out and Lockett not getting any younger, the Seahawks will likely try to move the receiver this offseason. Realistically, by the time this team can compete again, Lockett will be out of his prime and will be a declining asset. It makes sense for both parties to seek a trade.
If traded, Lockett’s first-year cap hit would be manageable and the rest of his contract could be worked with afterward. In terms of compensation, I think a third or fourth-round pick plus something else could secure the services of the veteran. The Seahawks move on from a player who won’t be a realistic target after the rebuild while the Steelers land a top slot option. It’s a win-win for both sides.
The Steelers have to be calling the Seahawks and assessing what assets are also on the trade block right now. With a full-blown rebuild almost a necessity now, there are quite a few names that should be intriguing for Pittsburgh. Keep an eye out on these five names as potential trade targets for the Steelers as the offseason progresses.