There are plenty of needs for the Pittsburgh Steelers to fill heading into the offseason. Much of their plans will hinge on Aaron Rodgers' decision to return or not. If he declines, locating a starting quarterback, or one to challenge Will Howard or Mason Rudolph for the job, will be paramount. If they don't want a free agent or a draft prospect, they could hunt the trade block.
If Rodgers doesn't return, Pittsburgh will have pressing issues to address other than the quarterback position.
In a recent article by Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine, he could see the Steelers potentially targeting three players who could hit the trade market this offseason. It would open new possibilities for the organization. They are loaded with draft picks and could use them to their advantage.
"The Steelers are not an organization that builds to lose. Mike Tomlin was speculatively on the hot seat after four first-round playoff exits in six seasons, but Pittsburgh has not had a losing season since 2003," Ballentine wrote.
Owner Art Rooney II claimed he doesn't want to waste a season to tank for a position to draft a quarterback. If that thought holds true, which is likely, don't anticipate the Steelers making moves without the thought of competing in their minds. They want to win games in the playoffs, and Mike McCarthy appears ready to get them there. A trade acquisition could help boost their chances.
Pittsburgh Steelers potential trade targets this offseason could address pressing needs
Kyler Murray, QB, Arizona Cardinals
Depending on Rodgers' future, don't be shocked if Kyler Murray's name is connected to the Steelers.
Trade rumors are always intriguing, and general manager Omar Khan has already shown a willingness to trade for a quarterback, as evidenced by the Justin Fields deal. While Murray holds a higher standard as a starter in the NFL than Fields, he isn't a franchise-caliber guy either. He would become an interesting spark plug for the offense.
While Murray carries a loaded contract with him in a potential trade, the Steelers could get out of it after this upcoming season. They could cut bait in 2027 and save $36.33 million in cap space if they desired. It would be a low-risk option for Pittsburgh, and could make sense if Rodgers doesn't return. Murray would give them the best shot at winning outside of Rodgers' potential return this offseason.
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Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
When Brian Thomas Jr. was coming out of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers held significant interest. They went in another direction in the first round that year, and Thomas has enjoyed a solid start to his career in Jacksonville. Since last season, some have included him in trade discussions as the young playmaker looks to sustain his early-career success. He could be a nice option.
Pittsburgh is in desperate need of a receiver upgrade or two, or three, this offseason. Thomas is still on his rookie deal for two more years and could expand his contract control by picking up his fifth-year option. The Steelers have shown interest in the young player in the past and could do so again if he becomes available via trade. Thomas would be a fantastic addition to help boost their offense.
Riley Moss, CB, Denver Broncos
Another interesting name that popped up in Ballentine's article is Riley Moss. This past season, the Denver Broncos returned to relevance, thanks in large part to their defense. Their secondary is full of talented players, and it might be time for some younger pieces to see their roles expand. That could make Moss and some other pieces of their defense available on the trade market.
Moss is only 25 years old and has a nice chunk of starting experience. He will be due for a contract extension starting this offseason; he would become a free agent next year. The veteran cornerback would be a nice addition for Pittsburgh. They must reshape their secondary this offseason, and adding a quality partner with Joey Porter Jr. could bring Moss to the Steelers.