With training camp well underway, here are four players the Steelers should throw on their trade block.
The trade block is a weird concept in the NFL. While in no way an official document, teams make their interest in trading a player pretty open. While the Steelers don’t need to force any trades right now, based on some camp performances, there are a few names that would make sense to flip. Here are four Steelers that need to be put on the trade block.
Why Steelers could trade Montravius Adams
It hasn’t been the start to camp that Montravius Adams likely wanted. While he hasn’t been noted much in either a positive or negative light, there have been some defensive linemen absolutely shining early on. Adams hasn’t stuck out, and while he looked good at times last season, his roster spot is far from secure.
Carlos Davis looks more like the rookie that showed promise than the injury-riddled depth piece he was last season. Meanwhile, late offseason addition Doug Costin has been impressing with his reps. All of this said, and new defensive linemen Larry Ogunjobi hasn’t even had a chance to play as the team takes it slow with his return from injury.
Adams is still viewed as a versatile backup with a good shot at making the roster, but the competition is getting tougher. If the Steelers can fetch a late-round pick for him, they should. The depth along the line seems really strong, so turning some of those players into draft capital is a good idea.
Why Steelers could trade Mason Rudolph
It hasn’t been a pretty camp for any of the Steelers quarterbacks so far. While most have labeled Mason Rudolph as the best of the bunch, that is more due to his lack of mistakes, as opposed to him actually playing well. He has been conservative and made a lot of high-percentage plays. Compared to the mistakes elsewhere, he has looked fine.
That said, the writing is on the wall for Rudolph. While signing a veteran like Mitchell Trubisky was expected, adding in a first-round quarterback shows just how much faith the team has in Rudolph. Despite claiming that quarterback is an open competition, the odds of Rudolph being anything more than the second option isn’t likely.
While it may be hard for the team to admit, this season will likely be a wash as Kenny Pickett learns the ropes and Trubisky starts. Rudolph doesn’t move the needle either, so getting whatever you can for him makes sense. His “strong” start to camp could even add to his value a little. The team should be shopping him around and try to get the best package that they can for him.
Why Steelers could trade Robert Spillane
While the talent at the top hasn’t been impressive, the overall depth at off-ball linebacker is immense. Amongst that group is Robert Spillane. The former undrafted free agent has risen the ranks to become a good special teams player and a fine backup that can play on defense in a pinch. That said, now may be the time to trade him.
Myles Jack has looked the part of what this team wants in a linebacker, so one of the spots is secure. While Devin Bush is still a question mark, the Steelers seem keen to give him every opportunity to redeem himself this season. Even if they decided to bench him, I doubt Pittsburgh would want Spillane being the every-down starter.
What really makes Spillane expendable is the surprise play of rookie Mark Robinson. Most expected some struggles from the former running back, but he has looked up to the task as both a run defender and coverage linebacker. While he may not be ready to take on a defensive role, he could rotate in if his solid play continues. In no way should this team feel forced to trade Spillane, but if the right offer comes up the team shouldn’t hesitate to flip him.
Why Steelers could trade Chase Claypool
Chase Claypool has had quite the fall from grace since being one of the most heavily touted rookie receivers from a few seasons ago. Last year was a down year as inconsistencies and immaturity seemed to plague him all season. While he can recover and be an impact player, the Steelers could test his trade market as well.
All of the talk has stemmed from George Pickens dominating training camp so far. The second-round pick has looked every bit of the part of a receiver that should have gone higher in the draft. Behind him, Calvin Austin looks like he can be an impact player sooner than later as his speed has been on display. Even veteran slot receiver Anthony Miller has been a steady presence for the team.
With Pickens having the ability to play in Claypool’s spot, the team could opt to trade the veteran. He would easily fetch the most return of the names on this list. While trading an asset on a developing offense is risky, it may be wise to get the most for Claypool now before his value drops anymore. With Diontae Johnson now locked up, the writing may be on the wall for Claypool long-term.
While the Steelers don’t have to force any trade right now, they have some names that could be added to the trade block in order to gauge interest. All four of these players could be replaced if the team opted to trade them sometime during training camp.