With cap space to use leading up to the NFL's trade deadline this year, the Pittsburgh Steelers could do some shopping. There will be constant trade rumors surrounding the team as their winning record makes them an option to add in the coming weeks. The Black and Gold have several weaknesses on the roster, and going after rental options could allow them to address multiple positions of need.
Adding rentals via trade normally would come at a lower price tag than those who carry a longer term on their contract.
The Steelers have $14.5 million in cap space according to Spotrac's website, and that means they can certainly make some moves if Omar Khan wants to. They also have some interesting pieces to trade away if they desire to do so. There could be some big-name rentals hitting the trade block as the deadline inches closer.
Pittsburgh Steelers could make massive splash with rentals before the NFL trade deadline
Tariq Woolen, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Even though the NFC East is still wide open, the Eagles have little hope of competing this season. The Steelers could use a proven commodity at the cornerback position, and Tariq Woolen will likely hit the trade block before the deadline. He just won a Super Bowl last year and is someone who can help the secondary. Woolen might be the solution to the inconsistent secondary that's plagued Pittsburgh.
Jauan Jennings, WR, Minnesota Vikings
It wouldn't be flashy, but acquiring Jauan Jennings might be a last-ditch effort for the team to add an experienced receiver to their roster.
Right now, Aaron Rodgers doesn't have enough talent in the wide receiver room to work with. If Omar Khan adds to his roster before the deadline, bringing in a wide receiver makes sense. Landing on Jennings might not be the best upgrade the Steelers can make on the trade market, but he could be someone to help their team.
Frankie Luvu, LB, Washington Commanders
The inconsistencies of the inside linebacker group continue to be frustrating to watch on defense. Pittsburgh could use someone like Frankie Luvu, who could help take this defense to new heights. He is a tough and physical player in the middle, and a true Number 1 inside linebacker. Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson must show they are stable presences, but if not, Luvu should become a trade target.
Quenton Nelson, OG, Indianapolis Colts
You could certainly say the offensive line isn't a pressing need, but they are one injury away from disaster. Although Brock Hoffman has been better than Spencer Anderson, the Steelers shouldn't be comfortable with him moving forward. The group would benefit greatly by adding Quenton Nelson via trade. It would probably cost a lot to acquire the future Hall of Famer, but it might be worth it.
Jessie Bates III, S, Atlanta Falcons
Having DeShon Elliott back from injury places the safety position down the list of needs, but Pittsburgh should consider adding a proven veteran if possible. Jessie Bates III is someone the team could use to help stabilize their group. If Jaquan Brisker doesn't see his performance improve with Elliott back, perhaps the Black and Gold pivot by landing Bates to help upgrade their safety tandem.
Trent Brown, OT, Houston Texans
Any long-term injury to Troy Fautanu or Max Iheanachor might put the Steelers' offense behind the eight ball enough to derail their season. Trent Brown isn't anyone flashy, but he's an experienced swing tackle who would be a big improvement over Dylan Cook. The biggest question mark of this rental option is whether the Houston Texans will be sellers whenever the NFL trade deadline arrives.
