Pittsburgh Steelers are likely trading for veteran WR Allen Robinson
By Tommy Jaggi
The Pittsburgh Steelers really have us on our heels right now. Just over a week until the 2023 NFL Draft is about to kick off, Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan are getting as aggressive as you could imagine. Apparently, they aren't content waiting until draft day to make another splash move.
On Tuesday afternoon, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Steelers will trade for Rams WR Allen Robinson (assuming he passes his physical). This is a move that came out of right field that I don't think anyone saw coming.
Steelers are bringing Rams WR Allen Robinson for a physical and if he passes, a trade to Pittsburgh is expected to happen, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 18, 2023
Robinson has had trouble staying healthy each of the past two seasons -- combining for just 22 games played over this span. In 2022 with the Los Angeles Rams, Robinson mustered up just 33 receptions for 339 yards (10.3 yards per reception). His limited usage was despite the fact that top WR Cooper Kupp was on IR.
Steelers should hold off on a trade for WR
The veteran wide receiver turns 30 years old this offseason and hasn't had a great year since 2020, so I can't imagine that the Steelers would have to give up a lot to make this move happen. What's most concerning is his contract. Robinson has a guaranteed salary of $15.25 million in 2023, per Over the Cap. Pittsburgh would be expected to pay his $10 million base salary if acquired in a trade (unless the Rams are willing to take on part of his deal).
This seems like an awful lot for a player who was a complete non-factor in 2022. Obviously, the Steelers would be hoping for a bounce-back season. But Robinson would be expected to be no more than the team's third wide receiver, and he's a player who doesn't play special teams.
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I applaud Omar Khan for wanting to get aggressive this season, but unless this is for a very late-round draft choice, I think this is a trade that Pittsburgh could do without. Yes, Kenny Pickett needs more wide receiver help, but I'm, not sure if trading for a potentially washed-up player like Allen Robinson is the way to go here. We will see if this trade is indeed confirmed soon.