With limited cap space, the Pittsburgh Steelers may not seem like a team likely to be involved in many trade rumors heading into the NFL Draft. Trading for a veteran player might not be their primary strategy, but it isn’t out of the question.
If the draft doesn’t unfold in their favor, they could explore the trade market and evaluate available options, potentially setting the stage for some surprising moves.
The team’s needs are fairly clear heading into the NFL Draft, but nothing is guaranteed when it comes to addressing specific positions. At times, key prospects are taken earlier than the Steelers anticipate, leaving them unable to fill those gaps. Before long, the draft can conclude without a clear resolution. In that case, revisiting potential trade targets could serve as a practical fallback option.
Pittsburgh Steelers could target veteran players via trade during the 2026 NFL Draft
Anthony Richardson, QB
There has been little interest in acquiring Anthony Richardson via trade, even though the Colts would likely move him for minimal compensation. If Day 3 of the draft passes without the Steelers selecting a developmental quarterback, they could revisit Richardson as an option. He shouldn’t be their top choice, but he could still provide value.
With Mike McCarthy brought in to develop quarterbacks, Richardson could fit that role.
He is a former first-round pick, and his level of athleticism is undeniable. While there have been questions about Richardson’s commitment to improving and fully embracing the game, a change in environment could positively influence his mindset. As the third option on the depth chart behind Rodgers and Will Howard, he would face little immediate pressure and have time to develop.
Kenny Moore II, CB
Pittsburgh appears intent on adding a cornerback during the NFL draft if things go according to plan. If not, they may need to look for solutions in free agency or on the trade market. Kenny Moore II remains one of the league’s top slot cornerbacks, a role that has become increasingly important in modern defenses. He could emerge as a prime target in a mutually beneficial trade.
Both Indianapolis and Moore have agreed to seek a trade partner, and if the Steelers want to make a splash, they could pursue a blockbuster deal. One possibility would be acquiring Moore in exchange for superstar defender Jalen Ramsey. On the surface, that may seem unfavorable for Pittsburgh, but from a financial and roster-building perspective, this deal could prove beneficial for both sides.
Walker Little, OT
After showing interest in the offensive tackle position during the pre-draft process, the Steelers could address the need in the middle rounds or even earlier. Omar Khan and his staff have placed a strong emphasis on the position in roster construction since 2023. If they are unable to secure a valuable tackle prospect in the draft, they may look to add reinforcements through other avenues.
The trade market could be a logical place to look, especially if Broderick Jones is not ready to return by the start of the regular season.
Walker Little presents a solid fallback option, combining experience with youth. His contract could complicate negotiations, but Omar Khan has consistently demonstrated an ability to manage the salary cap and find workable solutions. If Jones is unable to suit up, Little could provide valuable depth and stability.
Arik Armstead, DT
It’s clear Pittsburgh has an interest in adding a defensive lineman in the draft, but the level of urgency remains uncertain. After injecting youth into key roles along the trenches last year, that need may take a backseat. The Steelers could ultimately choose not to draft a defensive lineman this year. If they don’t continue building along the defensive front, Arik Armstead could become a trade target.
He is getting older and has taken on a reduced role with the Jaguars, but he could still be a strong fit for the Steelers. The team has effectively utilized a defensive line rotation, and with Cam Heyward also advancing in age, Armstead could help provide stability up front.
Omar Khan would need to navigate the veteran’s cap hit, but beyond that, Armstead could be a worthwhile gamble as a potential difference-maker on defense.
Brian Thomas Jr., WR
There has been plenty of discussion around the wide receiver position heading into the draft, but the Steelers should not feel overwhelming pressure to address it immediately. While taking a receiver early would still make sense, missing out shouldn’t be a major setback. Several proven playmakers remain available in free agency and via trade who could serve as reliable alternatives to the draft.
Brian Thomas Jr. has been mentioned in trade rumors at various points during the offseason, though that speculation has not gained significant traction. If Pittsburgh were to miss out on addressing the position in the draft, Thomas could be an intriguing fallback option. The Jaguars may be open to moving him, but acquiring him would likely come at a steep cost.
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