As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to assess their options for the 2025 season, the speculation surrounding potential trades continues to swirl. It began on ESPN's "First Take" from Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo. He insisted on discussing scenarios around Pittsburgh trading for two prominent veterans: quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Davante Adams, both currently with the New York Jets.
While Mike Tomlin needs a new quarterback and a reliable wide receiver after the disastrous end to the 2024 season, acquiring two aging stars is not the solution.
The Steelers’ offense in 2024 was nothing short of an embarrassment, with both the quarterback and wide receiver positions exposed as weaknesses. With Russell Wilson’s departure becoming more likely with each passing day, and backup quarterback Justin Fields’ future clouded with uncertainty, the Steelers are desperate for a reshuffled roster.
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Mock drafts and free agent signings are already under heavy discussion as the team looks to rebuild. However, a trade for two veterans like Rodgers and Adams does not align with long-term goals.
Aging veterans will only derail potential momentum Steelers can build with youtful aquisitions
Let’s start with Rodgers. The 40-year-old quarterback, despite his illustrious career, showed clear signs of decline last season. His attempt to revitalize his career with a reunion with former Green Bay Packers teammate Adams did little to turn the Jets’ season around. The Jets were hoping Rodgers would be their missing piece. They ultimately fell short of expectations.
Rodgers struggled with consistency, his age and injury history create significant concerns. For the Steelers, bringing in a quarterback with such red flags would be a risky, short-term fix at best. The team needs a player who can lead them for years, not someone on the tail end of their career who may only provide marginal improvement in the immediate future.
On the other side of the ball, adding Davante Adams, while appealing in theory, also doesn’t solve Arthur Smith's problems. Adams, though still a top-tier receiver, is 31 years old, and like Rodgers, he’s nearing the twilight of his career. The Steelers need youth, energy, and long-term upside at wide receiver—not another aging veteran with a hefty price tag.
While Rodgers and Adams have undeniable talent, the Steelers should pause before pursuing a trade. The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft is rich with promising young quarterbacks and wide receivers. There is also plenty of potential in the free-agent market.
Rather than committing to high-priced veterans past their primes, the Steelers should prioritize fresh faces with the potential for long-term growth.
The Steelers need a fresh start with fresh players—a youthful talent that can grow with the team and help create a new offensive identity. It’s time for Pittsburgh to build for the future, not to chase fading stars whose best days may be behind them.