3 trades that would transform Steelers into Super Bowl contenders

The Steelers have made several unconventional moves since Omar Khan took over as GM. However, there are still a few key moves that could further enhance the roster. Acquiring one of these players would be both exciting and impactful, potentially elevating the team's chances of winning a Super Bowl this season.

1. Brandon Aiyuk traded to one of his top destinations

To solidify their wide receiver core, the most obvious and common trade would be to acquire Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers. A trade of this magnitude would require a high draft pick and a substantial contract. However, for a Steelers team that has ample cap space and minimal high-end spending on offense, this is certainly feasible.

That said, this move would likely signal the end of George Pickens' tenure with the Steelers. They would either trade him next offseason or let him play out his rookie contract and become a free agent, as it would be unwise to pay two wide receivers top-tier money.

Acquiring a player like Aiyuk would complete the offense and undoubtedly make it even more dynamic and exciting.

2. Steelers make a move for Jonathan Allen to beef up the defensive line?

Another interesting scenario involves a potential move for Commanders' defensive lineman Jonathan Allen. Allen, who becomes a free agent in 2026, is currently on a Washington team undergoing a rebuild, having drafted a defensive tackle in the second round this year.

At 29 years old, Allen carries a hefty cap hit of over $20 million this year and the next. Considering the Commanders traded Montez Sweat to the Bears last year, it would make sense for them to trade Allen as well, given his age, high salary, and the opportunity to gain draft picks that could expedite their rebuild.

For the Steelers, this move could be strategic. They have had contract negotiations stall with Cameron Heyward, and his future with the team remains uncertain. Regardless of whether Heyward stays or goes, bolstering the defensive line is prudent, especially with Heyward already at 35 years old.

If Larry Ogunjobi continues to struggle, he may not be on the team in 2025, making Jonathan Allen an excellent contingency plan. Even if Heyward signs elsewhere, Allen could fill the gap effectively.

Additionally, if Heyward were extended and the Steelers traded for Allen, they could still manage the contract financially due to Keeanu Benton being on a rookie deal. Ogunjobi, who is currently a rotational player earning starter money, could be repositioned.

Imagine a defensive line this season featuring Heyward, Benton, and Allen, with Ogunjobi rotating in. This would not only create a significantly stronger unit but also provide a solid backup plan if both Heyward and Ogunjobi are gone next year.

3. Finding much need cornerback depth

This trade would make perfect sense and be extremely logical from the Steelers' perspective, aiming to secure a starter opposite Joey Porter Jr. for years to come. Enter Deommodore Lenoir, a cornerback for the 49ers who will be a free agent next year.

While the 49ers might be reluctant to trade him, given their Super Bowl aspirations, it's a move worth considering since they recently drafted Renardo Green in the second round, who has a similar skill set to Lenoir.

Lenoir, capable of playing both outside and in the slot, would significantly bolster the Steelers' cornerback depth, which is currently lacking. This trade benefits both teams: the 49ers gain a draft pick for a player who might leave in free agency, and the Steelers acquire a much-needed player, especially with Cameron Sutton suspended for eight games.

Lenoir could fill the slot role in Sutton's absence and become interchangeable with Sutton upon his return. Alternatively, he could move to the outside if Donte Jackson struggles.

However, the 49ers have several cornerbacks potentially hitting the market, and given Lenoir's youth and upward trajectory, they might consider extending him. Despite this, it wouldn't hurt for Omar Khan to reach out and explore the possibility of a trade.