The Pittsburgh Steelers have endured one of the wildest offseasons in recent franchise history.
From a quarterback carousel that ended with the dramatic arrival of Aaron Rodgers to gut-wrenching roster changes that included saying goodbye to George Pickens and Najee Harris, the Steelers have not made it easy on themselves or fans.
Now, with mandatory minicamp underway and Week 1 creeping closer, it’s time for Pittsburgh to put a bold exclamation mark on this chaotic stretch: they must trade for a wide receiver who can elevate the offense.
Terry McLaurin is that guy.
It’s no secret that the Steelers’ wide receiver room still needs a dynamic piece. Yes, Omar Khan pulled off a headline-grabbing trade to bring in DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks—but shortly after, the team shipped George Pickens to Dallas, leaving a significant gap.
As the initial excitement of Rodgers’ signing begins to settle, Steelers Nation is realizing that one great receiver isn’t enough. Pittsburgh needs a second elite option, and McLaurin fits that role perfectly.
McLaurin is everything you want in a modern NFL receiver—productive, precise, and professional. Despite consistently being the focal point of opposing defenses, he racked up 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns last season.
He helped rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels find his footing in Washington.
The Pittsburgh Steelers need to trade for Terry McLaurin immediately for the 2025 season
McLaurin has made four Pro Bowls in six seasons, all while dealing with inconsistency under center and limited help around him.
Yet, the Commanders still haven’t given him the long-term respect he’s earned. McLaurin is entering the final year of his three-year, $68.4 million extension signed in 2022, and according to reports, contract talks have been “minimal.”
That opens the door for Pittsburgh to step in and make a move that could redefine their offense—and their season.
With Rodgers at quarterback and Metcalf drawing attention on one side, McLaurin would thrive in Arthur Smith’s system. He wouldn’t just be a possession guy or a deep threat—he’d be the mismatch-maker.
His presence would force defenses to make impossible decisions, and for once, the Steelers' offense could dictate games instead of reacting to them.
The Steelers have the draft capital to make it happen—12 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Khan doesn’t have to mortgage the future, but he also can’t let this moment slip away. After months of scrutiny, this is Pittsburgh’s chance to shut the critics up and show that they’re all in for 2025.
Rodgers. Metcalf. McLaurin.
It’s not just a fantasy—it’s a possibility. And it’s the statement move this team needs to complete their offseason transformation.