Fewer trade targets have been consistently rumored to the Pittsburgh Steelers than veteran wide receiver Jakobi Meyers. The receiver has struggled through a toxic season with the Las Vegas Raiders as they continue to find ways to lose games. Their record of 2-6 appears insurmountable to recover from. It has made them a premier target as the trade deadline draws closer.
Since George Pickens was sent out of Pittsburgh, everyone has wondered who would take his place.
Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson have shown some good signs in expanded roles this season, but nothing that comforts the worries of the team. Their offense has been inconsistent, and it might need a new receiver on the roster. Negotiations remain ongoing as the team continues to search for answers.
Last year, before the trade deadline, the Raiders moved Davante Adams out of town for a reasonable haul. Meyers holds a high asking price from Las Vegas, but those situations usually balance out as the deadline gets closer. Pittsburgh would love to add Meyers, but the likelihood of them sending out a third-round pick or more to nab a receiver of his talents seems rather low.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could trade for WR Jakobi Meyers for conditional value
Meyers is a pending free agent following the season, which means he would only play the remainder of the season in Pittsburgh. The Steelers probably couldn't afford to bring the receiver back because his next contract will likely be expensive. That might be a luxury the team cannot afford after they paid DK Metcalf a hefty sum when they extended him in the offseason.
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Throughout the offseason, preseason, and during the season, Pittsburgh has remained in trade rumors surrounding Meyers. They have kept tabs on the receiver, and they would love to finally reach a deal before the trade deadline passes. It’s unlikely they’ll want to give up a third-round draft pick, but they might find it acceptable if the Raiders agree to certain conditions.
A trade that includes conditional terms on a 2026 third-round pick from Pittsburgh to Las Vegas might be acceptable. The pick would become a third-rounder if the Steelers make some noise in the postseason. If they fail to win a playoff matchup or two, that third-rounder could revert to a fourth-round pick. That would give the Steelers some added insurance in a potential trade.
Another condition worth considering for both sides is whether the Steelers could possibly re-sign Meyers.
It's unlikely, but that could always be part of a conditional pick going to the Raiders in a deal. Sending a top draft pick, like many have rumored, would be bold for Pittsburgh to consider, unless they have a solution with conditions that could soften the blow in a Meyers deal before the trade deadline.