Lions hold all the cards for Steelers after missing out on Brandon Aiyuk

Now that Brandon Aiyuk is out of the question for the Steelers as a potential upgrade at receiver, they need to turn their attention elsewhere. They missed the boat on potential upgrades when roster cuts were announced. Not only do they need to find a potential starting option in a hurry, but they need proven depth guys too.

Their best discount option might just be off the Detroit Lions practice squad. They have plenty of receivers on that unit who either have experience or a certain level of versatility that could help the Steelers heading into Week 1. These names might not be as flashy as Aiyuk or any other receiver rumored to be available, but it could be a free option to put a patch on the issue for now.

Khan has failed significantly at finding a replacement for Diontae Johnson since he traded him earlier in the offseason. Looking back and seeing how things developed, it seems like Khan and the Steelers never had a real plan to replace Johnson. The guys on their roster don't seem to be the answer, so bringing in an outside receiver or two is the best route for them to take.

In a reverse course, the Steelers could target the Lions practice squad

Donovan Peoples-Jones

When roster cuts were announced, Donovan Peoples-Jones was a name circled by many who covered the Steelers as a potential addition to the club. That didn't happen and Peoples-Jones signed onto the Lions practice squad. He started to show he could produce in a starting role during his time in Cleveland, so the Steelers should be familiar with him.

Tom Kennedy

A name out of left field here, but Tom Kennedy is someone who has worked his butt off to get to this level. He is a former undrafted free agent coming out of Bryant University. He is a small receiver who has shown to be a reliable slot receiver who can also chip in on special teams. The Steelers could use added depth at both spots, so Kennedy could be a nice addition.

Tim Patrick

Everyone wanted Tim Patrick or Noah Brown to be the addition the Steelers made when roster cuts were official. Neither Patrick nor Brown were added. Some good news, Patrick signed onto the Lions practice squad, so the Steelers could pluck him off of there if they wish. He is coming off of back-to-back season-ending injuries, but he has prior production as a starter and is familiar with Russell Wilson and Zach Azzanni.

Allen Robinson II

Would the Steelers be willing to bring back a familiar face like Allen Robinson II? He was a cap casualty for Pittsburgh this past offseason after providing little production as a receiver. His days of producing big numbers are over, but Robinson remains a quality blocker as a receiver. That is something Arthur Smith likes, and it could make some sense.