Shifting the roster may not be a priority for the Pittsburgh Steelers heading into the NFL Draft, but it remains a realistic possibility. As the draft unfolds, several players could find themselves on the trade block depending on how the board falls. If the Steelers select certain prospects during the event, it could leave some veterans facing uncertainty about their roles on the roster moving forward.
Do not expect many players to be moved off the roster, but the individuals listed could still see their names surface in trade rumors.
If Pittsburgh uses a high draft pick at a particular position and receives an offer that is simply too good to pass up, some players could find themselves on new teams. It will be interesting to see how the Steelers manage their roster and utilize all 12 draft picks when exploring potential trade opportunities during the NFL Draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers could expand their trade block heading into the NFL Draft
Nick Herbig, EDGE
Keep an eye on the possibility of an edge rusher becoming available via trade during the draft. Nick Herbig remains a fan favorite, but his future in Pittsburgh may not be guaranteed. He is an explosive pass rusher and a player the team could struggle to afford long-term. While it would not be easy to convince the Steelers to part with Herbig, it is a scenario the front office could at least consider.
Pat Freiermuth, TE
No one expects Pat Freiermuth to be traded, but his name has remained a regular presence in speculation over the past year.
His role in the offense was significantly reduced last season, which could lead to frustration and raise questions about his long-term future with the team. There is also growing belief that the Steelers may target a tight end in the middle rounds of the draft, a move that could further cloud Freiermuth's role. While it would take a substantial offer for Pittsburgh to consider moving him, it cannot be ruled out.
Patrick Queen, LB
Few Steelers players have generated more trade speculation this offseason than Patrick Queen. While a move is far from certain, the idea of him being traded during the draft is not outlandish. Pittsburgh could target an inside linebacker early in the event, a decision that would significantly increase Queen's availability. Dallas could even be willing to rekindle previous trade talks.
Kaleb Johnson, RB
Despite Mike McCarthy's praise for Kaleb Johnson and his potential future with the team, the overall fit remains puzzling. Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren are firmly established ahead of him on the depth chart, leaving little room for Johnson to carve out a meaningful role. Under the right circumstances, Pittsburgh could consider including Johnson in a trade package if a team shows interest in him.
Jalen Ramsey, S
Given the level of interest the Steelers have shown at cornerback and safety throughout the pre-draft process, it could place Jalen Ramsey into trade discussions. While a move remains unlikely, shedding his significant cap hit would make sense for Pittsburgh.
Much would depend on whether the Steelers select a slot cornerback early in the NFL Draft, a decision that could elevate Ramsey's name in potential trade talks.
Roman Wilson, WR
With a new coaching staff in place, it remains unclear how the roster will be evaluated moving forward. Roman Wilson did not meet expectations last season and is beginning to approach bust territory. This season represents a critical opportunity for him to prove his value. The Steelers are expected to add one or more receivers in the draft, a move that could reduce the snaps for Wilson.
Alex Highsmith, EDGE
Herbig was mentioned earlier, but Alex Highsmith represents another edge rusher who could emerge as a trade candidate. He would command greater trade value than Herbig and is also the older of the two players. If the Steelers decide to move one of their edge rushers during the NFL Draft, Highsmith appears to be the more logical option.
There is still a scenario where both Highsmith and Herbig remain on the roster this season, but their situations are worth monitoring closely.
Mason Rudolph, QB
Evaluating whether another team would have interest in Mason Rudolph via trade is difficult. He has proven to be a dependable backup quarterback. Rudolph could be included in a larger trade package if the opportunity arises. Pittsburgh is expected to select a young quarterback during the draft, a decision that would effectively place a timeline on Rudolph's remaining days with the team.
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