The NFL trade deadline can become a blessing in disguise for the Pittsburgh Steelers. That is, if they take full advantage of the opportunity. Bartering with other front offices can be worthwhile. Especially if it helps Patrick Graham’s defense roster with a veteran defensive back with plenty of experience.
Riq Woolen fits the definition perfectly.
The former fifth-round pick (2022) compiled a distinguished resume in little time. Woolen is a Super Bowl Champion and has earned recognition as a Pro Bowl-caliber defender (2022). He’s developed a reputation as a ball hawk after setting Seattle’s rookie record for most interceptions in a season (6).
After four seasons with the Seahawks, the former UTSA Roadrunner was forced to relocate in free agency. In March, Woolen agreed to a one-year deal worth $12 million with the Eagles. It was a steal for a franchise hoping to add talent at a discounted price.
And Philadelphia is receiving a return on investment. According to PFF.com, Woolen has earned a 71.3 overall grade heading into Week 7. He also ranks first in snaps (425) when compared to other cornerbacks across the league and hasn’t missed a tackle (20) this campaign.
So why would Howie Roseman part ways with an experienced stud?
Well, the Eagles’ season hasn’t played out how analysts and fans imagined. Nick Sirianni’s squad enters Week 7 with a 2-4 record after losing four consecutive games. Plus, recent news of Jalen Hurts missing the rest of the season due to blood clots hasn’t made the tune any sweeter.
The Pittsburgh Steelers should submit an offer to the Eagles for Riq Woolen before the NFL trade deadline
Sure, the season is far from over. But it’s hard to overlook the storm clouds surrounding Lincoln Financial Field. Receiving capital to prepare for the road ahead may create a much-needed ray of light.
It’s hard to deny Pittsburgh’s need for an experienced and poised defensive back, especially after witnessing Joey Porter Jr.’s negotiations turning sour. A trade with the Cowboys sent Pittsburgh’s best cornerback packing before the front office could find a replacement. Without Porter, Patrick Graham’s defense has relied on Asante Samuel and rookie Daylen Everette to play bigger roles than expected.
They’ve fared well in recent outings, but isn’t it nice to have veteran experience available as an insurance blanket?
Riq Woolen can provide this for Pittsburgh. His 6'4" frame and 4.26 speed make him a headache for wideouts hoping to make big plays downfield. Valuable time on the gridiron is a tool his peers can benefit from.
But how much could the veteran cost Omar Khan’s front office?
Acquiring Woolen shouldn’t put a dent in Pittsburgh’s pocket. The Steelers would pay the remainder of the veteran’s contract. But that shouldn’t be a deal breaker. According to Spotrac, his remaining annual base salary after restricting is $1.26 million. Pittsburgh would generally inherit the unpaid portion of that salary plus applicable incentives depending on when the trade is finalized.
A 2027 fifth-round pick would be my offer to Philadelphia for Riq Woolen’s services. The investment would leave Pittsburgh with plenty of draft capital for next season’s NFL draft while giving them an X-factor to improve the defense immediately. It would also give the Eagles additional resources in exchange for a player with an expiring contract during a disappointing season.
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