The Pittsburgh Steelers are exactly where they need to be as they approach the season’s midway point. Mike McCarthy’s unit is riding positive momentum thanks to Aaron Rodgers’ hot streak. With the veteran quarterback planning to hang up his cleats after this campaign, Omar Khan should do everything in his power to improve the roster before the Nov. 10 trade deadline.
There are plausible options available. Here are my favorite targets that I believe would set Pittsburgh up for short- and long-term success.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can help Aaron Rodgers enjoy a successful last ride with meaningful NFL Trade deadline acquisitions
Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Deadline target #5: Isaiah Pola-Mao, Safety, Las Vegas Raiders
Best Trade Offer: 2027 Sixth Round Pick
Patrick Graham’s secondary is stuck between a rock and a hard place. Yes, Jaquan Brisker and Jalen Ramsey are anchoring Pittsburgh’s defense well. But the veteran safeties cannot be everywhere at once. And with Ramsey used as a Swiss Army knife, Graham is forced to throw rookie Robert Spencers-Jennings into the fire more than anticipated.
The seventh-round draft pick is exceeding expectations. But if Omar Khan can roster veteran help for cheap, he shouldn’t hesitate. Isaiah Pola-Mao is a versatile defender who can fill multiple roles. He’s also familiar with Patrick Graham’s scheme. In 2025, the undrafted free agent earned 92 tackles and two interceptions but hasn’t received much action this season.
Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Deadline target #4: Riq Woolen, Cornerback, Philadelphia Eagles
Best Trade Offer: 2027 Fifth Round Pick
The Joey Porter Jr. trade still stings. Watching him lock down defenders in Dallas doesn’t soothe the pain. Pittsburgh’s front office casually moved on after negotiations with their best cornerback fell through the cracks. Sure, Asante Samuel Jr. and Daylen Everette are carrying the mantle well. But a more experienced defensive back would benefit the entire group.
Riq Woolen is a ball-hawking X-factor with juice still in the tank. In 2022, he set Seattle’s rookie record for interceptions in a season (6). And he’s still a thorn in the quarterback’s side today. This season, the seasoned veteran ranks fifth in solo tackles on the Eagles defense.
With Philadelphia’s future uncertain, it might be worth making Howie Roseman an offer. The opportunist might attempt to stockpile draft capital to begin planning for next season. It’s the sellout path for the Eagles, but it could help Pittsburgh add a key X-factor.
Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Deadline target #3: Jalen Tolbert, Wide Receiver, Miami Dolphins
Best Trade Offer: 2027 Seventh Round Pick
A complementary receiver is the missing piece to Mike McCarthy’s offense. Michael Pittman Jr. (foot) and Roman Wilson (hand) will miss time while on injured reserve. Sure, the front office signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling to the practice squad. His relationship with Aaron Rodgers is honorable. But I don’t trust he can become an X-factor if Pittsburgh needs a big-time performance.
Jalen Tolbert isn’t a primary threat. But that hasn’t been his role. Instead, the former third-round pick is known to make contested catches and is reliable in the red zone. And a reunion with McCarthy could spark a productive campaign. In 2024, Tolbert earned 49 receptions, 610 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. This year, he’s only recorded one reception. He could be a cheap investment to acquire depth.
Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Deadline target #2: Chris Godwin Jr., Wide Receiver, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Best Trade Offer: 2027 Fifth Round Pick
It’s hard for franchises to endure the brunt of the regular season without rotational players. Tolbert would provide extra insurance in case more injuries occur. But when Wilson and Pittman Jr. return, how much would his new role become? If Pittsburgh invests in a wideout, he must make a significant impact. A savvy veteran with a chip on his shoulder would be ideal.
Chris Godwin Jr. fits the definition perfectly. He’s a well-rounded receiver with physical ball-carrying tendencies. A slew of injuries stripped time away from the former Nittany Lion. A rough start to the season could result in a lower asking price. Since 2017, the former third-round pick has earned 7,842 receiving yards and 635 receptions. This season, he ranks 71st in yards (216) and has yet to reach the end zone. Currently, the Buccaneers sit at the bottom of the NFC South.
Are they still fighting for a successful season or looking forward to the future?
Pittsburgh Steelers Trade Deadline target #1: Brian Thomas Jr., Wide Receiver, Jacksonville Jaguars
Best Trade Offer: 2027 Third Round, 2027 Fifth Round and 2028 Second Round Pick
Watching George Pickens become a Dallas Cowboy hurt more than Porter Jr’s sendoff. The former second-round pick came with headaches, but his talent was undeniable. He earned 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in 48 games. His acrobatic catches and body control moved chains despite the offense’s inefficiencies. Pickens was supposed to be the next legendary Steelers wide receiver. Instead, he’s a Pittsburgh memory. And the front office still hasn’t replaced him.
Investing in a dynamic receiver could become pricey. But this is Aaron Rodgers’ last season. And Brian Thomas is worth the investment. The former first-rounder (2024) has barely scratched his potential. He’s only missed three games due to an ankle sprain (2025). But why would Jacksonville listen to a potential trade? A shrinking role has diminished his value. Thomas Jr. put up 1,282 receiving yards during his Pro Bowl rookie season. He’s only accounted for 105 yards in six games this campaign.
It would be foolish not to take advantage of the NFL Trade deadline. Certainly, if a franchise is lacking roster depth. The Pittsburgh Steelers are managing through a wave of injuries well. But refusing to take proactive measures is malpractice. Especially if the front office doesn’t know when they’ll have another Aaron Rodgers to lead the way.
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