Although a blockbuster trade may not be imminent for the Pittsburgh Steelers, that does not mean the front office will stand pat. General manager Omar Khan has consistently shown a willingness to operate behind the scenes in pursuit of roster improvements.
As the team prepares for training camp, several areas still need attention, but none stand out more than inside linebacker as the most pressing need for an upgrade.
Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen failed to establish themselves as a reliable long-term pairing in the middle of the defense last season. While they appear poised to get another opportunity to prove themselves, relying on that outcome is a risky decision by the Steelers. Bringing back two inconsistent starters could quickly turn into a major concern moving forward.
Ultimately, the Steelers should explore both the trade market and available free agents to strengthen their roster. There are several intriguing options that could deliver a significant upgrade at the position. One name that stands out is Jordyn Brooks, who could emerge as a viable trade target. His presence would provide an immediate boost and help address the team’s issues at inside linebacker.
Pittsburgh Steelers should target a linebacker upgrade and trade for Jordyn Brooks
The Steelers must seriously consider reshuffling their options at inside linebacker. While a move may not immediately make sense for the Miami Dolphins, a potential swap involving Jordyn Brooks and Patrick Queen could be explored. Pittsburgh would likely need to add some value to make the deal work, but nothing overly significant.
With a new coaching staff in place in Miami, a roster shakeup could be on the table, making this type of move at least worth evaluating.
Another factor to weigh in this scenario is the salary cap impact. Brooks carries a cap hit of $10.86 million, while Patrick Queen’s figure is notably higher at $17.19 million. That nearly $7 million difference could influence negotiations, potentially prompting the Steelers to include some draft picks or additional assets to help balance the deal and push a trade across the finish line.
When comparing Queen and Brooks, the difference in production becomes clear.
Brooks delivered an outstanding season with 183 combined tackles, earning First-Team All-Pro honors and surpassing Queen’s solid total of 120 combined tackles. He also proved more disruptive behind the line of scrimmage, recording five more tackles for loss and adding two and a half more sacks than Queen, further highlighting his overall impact.
Acquiring Brooks in a trade would be no easy feat, especially with both him and Queen set to hit free agency after this season. However, the Steelers may be better off paying the price to land Brooks and securing him with a long-term extension rather than riding out Queen’s deal. Brooks represents the type of impactful upgrade this defense needs to take the next step.
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