Players landing on the trade block at this point in the offseason is nothing new. Teams are evaluating their rosters ahead of free agency, determining which players fit their long‑term plans. This process fuels speculation about trade availability, and it often results in potential cap casualties as well. The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be active, and they’re clearly looking to make meaningful upgrades.
Acquiring one or even two wide receivers should be high on the team’s offseason priority list. The Steelers are already exploring the trade market as free agency approaches, and adding a weapon through the draft remains a strong possibility. One name that continues to surface in connection with Pittsburgh is Brian Thomas Jr.
Now the Jacksonville Jaguars receiver is rumored to be on the trade block.
According to Steelers insider Mark Kaboly, Thomas may be available for a surprisingly reasonable trade offer.
"Now what’re you going to give up for him? Probably not that much. Everybody always thinks it’s going to be two firsts, no, probably not." Kaboly continued, "Maybe not even a first or a second (round pick)."
Most people assumed the Steelers would need to part with a first- or second‑round pick to acquire Thomas. However, if Kaboly is correct, that price tag might drop to something far more manageable for Pittsburgh. Sending one of their three third‑round picks in the upcoming draft for a young, established receiver who’s already under contract for several years would be an absolute bargain.
Of course, everything still hinges on how this speculation plays out.
Pittsburgh Steelers trade price for WR Brian Thomas Jr. isn't as steep as once anticipated
In a perfect scenario, the Steelers would be able to fleece Jacksonville and acquire Thomas for less than a third‑round pick.
However, if the Jaguars’ starting point in negotiations truly begins with a first or second‑round selection, the odds of that happening are slim. Even so, adding a young, proven receiver with legitimate NFL production would be a significant boost to the offense. The fact that he remains on his rookie contract only makes the potential acquisition even more valuable.
"But if you’re going to get a Brian Thomas, that’s great. Bring him on in." Kaboly stated, "I’m sure he’s still on his rookie contract, so it's probably not that much money until the fourth year, and even that isn’t that bad."
Jacksonville enters the 2026 NFL Draft in a tough spot, as they don't hold a first‑round pick. They’re projected to have nine or ten total selections, but the lack of a first‑rounder complicates things. Ideally, they would secure a first‑round pick in any trade involving Thomas, but there’s no guarantee that will happen. Even so, acquiring an additional second‑ or third‑round pick could still be significant.
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Pittsburgh would love to land Thomas, but they aren’t the only team exploring a potential trade for him. Plenty of franchises will be interested in adding a receiver of his caliber, and that competition could drive up the price. Teams that are desperate for offensive help may be willing to pay more than Kaboly’s suggested price, especially if the market heats up beyond a first‑ or second‑round valuation.
If more teams enter the trade conversations for Thomas and the price begins to climb, he may ultimately move out of Pittsburgh’s reach. The Steelers would love to add the young receiver at the right value, as his immediate impact and affordable contract make him an ideal target. They will continue pursuing Thomas, but only if the cost remains reasonable.