As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to retool their wide receiver group, the team could look to get creative. They added Michael Pittman Jr. via trade ahead of free agency, forming a solid pairing with DK Metcalf. While Pittman Jr. is a quality addition, it is clear that Pittsburgh still needs to address the position this offseason. The offense is missing a true explosive playmaker.
All signs continue to point toward the upcoming NFL Draft as the primary way to address the team’s ongoing need. While Pittsburgh already has two big-bodied targets in Pittman Jr. and Metcalf, the offense would benefit from an explosive weapon who can create plays with the ball in his hands. Landing that type of player would likely require moving up in the first round.
That said, the Steelers could still choose to explore other avenues beyond the draft.
Rumors continue to swirl around Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Reports have varied regarding his availability, but Pittsburgh might've shown interest in him, according to speculation. After adding Pittman Jr. via trade, it seems unlikely, but what if they made Metcalf available? A mock trade proposal shows it could be worth considering for the Jaguars and Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers bold mock trade proposal ships out DK Metcalf for Brian Thomas Jr.
This mock trade would certainly draw significant attention if it were to become reality.
Turning DK Metcalf into a trade candidate just one year into his massive contract would be a bold move and a clear admission of miscalculation by the Steelers. With his lawsuit stemming from last season’s incident involving a Lions fan still unresolved, the new coaching staff may be less willing to tolerate potential distractions. Taken together, those factors could ultimately lead to change.
On the other hand, the Jaguars appear cautiously open to the idea of trading Thomas Jr. The Steelers could present an intriguing option for Jacksonville to consider. In return, the Jaguars would acquire a high-profile receiver for an offense that made significant strides last season. Adding Metcalf could help maintain that momentum and keep the unit moving in a positive direction.
In this mock trade scenario, general manager Omar Khan would be taking on a greater gamble.
Thomas Jr. is a young and talented receiver coming off a down season, but he would be a more affordable option and remain under team control for two additional years, along with a fifth-year option. Metcalf is the more proven receiver in this proposal, which explains why Pittsburgh would command a stronger return, as reflected in the draft picks included in the deal.
In this scenario, the Steelers would move up 20 spots from their earliest third-round selection to secure an additional second-round pick. That represents solid value, especially when paired with the acquisition of a third-round pick in next year’s draft. The added capital could serve as valuable ammunition for a potential quarterback trade-up in 2027.