With the NFL trade deadline quickly approaching on November 4, the Pittsburgh Steelers are running out of time. They may not be as active as they were last year, but they could still pursue several opportunities if the right ones arise. The key need to be addressed is the receiver position, but the Steelers could always count on general manager Omar Khan pulling off another move or two.
According to Spotrac's website, Pittsburgh has $20.6 million in cap space leading up to the trade deadline. The Steelers lead their division with a 4–2 record, but they have yet to prove themselves as true contenders. That lack of trust that Khan could have in his roster could lead to a quiet deadline.
If the team cannot perform well in the two games leading up to the trade deadline, then Khan would be foolish to move a bunch of assets off his team.
It appears the Steelers may be avoiding trading high-end draft picks, likely because they plan to select a quarterback in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. If that's the case, it could result in Khan shopping in the bargain section of the trade block. That strategy could lead them to target teams at the bottom of the standings to strengthen their roster without overspending.
Pittsburgh Steelers could pull off trade heists of desperate NFL bottom dwellers
New York Jets (0-7)
Potential trade targets: Allen Lazard (WR), Garrett Wilson (WR), Josh Reynolds (WR)
First up are the last-place New York Jets. They should be willing to trade almost any valuable asset available. They have several receivers who could be solid additions for the Steelers, and there is prior history between these two teams in making deals. Garrett Wilson would be a splash addition, but he didn't gel with Aaron Rodgers in New York, which could complicate things.
The cheaper options from New York include Allen Lazard and Josh Reynolds.
Lazard’s connection with Rodgers makes him a sensible target for Pittsburgh. He wouldn't be a popular addition, but Lazard would be better than nothing. Josh Reynolds is flying under the radar with the Jets, and he could be a big receiver for the team. Neither Reynolds nor Lazard should cost much in a trade.
New Orleans Saints (1-6)
Potential trade targets: Chris Olave (WR), Rashid Shaheed (WR), Justin Reid (S)
Everyone and their mother expected the New Orleans Saints to be bad this season, and they're living up to those toxic expectations. They have several receivers who would be nice additions for the Steelers. Chris Olave is New Orleans' top weapon at the position, but he would cost a pretty penny in a trade. He might be out of Pittsburgh's price range, plus his injury history is a problem.
Perhaps the cheaper route would be targeting Rashid Shaheed. Rumor has it that Khan would like to add a speedster to his roster, and Shaheed fits that bill. His speed could bring a fresh element to the offense. If the defense continues to struggle, why not consider Justin Reid? He would be a massive addition to the backend of the defense, which has struggled this season.
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Tennessee Titans (1-6)
Potential trade targets: Calvin Ridley (WR), Roger McCreary (CB)
There isn't much quality on the Tennessee Titans' rebuilding roster. The name that stands out is Calvin Ridley. He is a noteworthy player, having shown capability as both the secondary receiver and the primary offensive threat at the NFL level. He is highly compensated, but he could become a cap casualty after this season if things don't work out.
Ridley is an aging receiver who remains productive, and it would give the Steelers contractual options.
Other than potentially targeting Ridley from Tennessee, Pittsburgh could always consider some options in the secondary. Several safeties could make sense as depth options on their roster, but there are interesting cornerbacks, too. Roger McCreary hasn't enjoyed a fantastic start to his professional career, but he's young, and the Steelers showed pre-draft interest in him.
Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)
Potential trade targets: Jakobi Meyers (WR), Tre Tucker (WR), Elandon Roberts (LB)
Pittsburgh has been tied to multiple receivers in trade rumors, but Jakobi Meyers appears to be their most realistic "splash" addition for a potentially fair price. He has been the top dog with the Las Vegas Raiders since they dealt Davante Adams last year to New York. He has continued to produce solid numbers, and he remains a consistent receiver for the Steelers to consider.
Meyers could cost a third-round pick, but if that's too pricey for Khan, Pittsburgh could think about Tre Tucker. The young receiver isn't as proven as Meyers, but he continues to improve his numbers. Tucker could be a cheaper choice. If an injury or two hit the middle linebackers on the roster, the Steelers could consider adding former fan favorite Elandon Roberts as well.