Top 10 Steelers Wide Receiver Trade Targets Before the 2023 NFL Trade Deadline

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2023 NFL season with high hopes for their receiving corps. However, a string of unfortunate events, including rookie receiver Roman Wilson’s hamstring injury setback and the lackluster performance of certain players, has cast a shadow over their initial optimism. The need for a potent receiving threat to complement George Pickens has become increasingly apparent, especially with the team’s aspirations for a deep playoff run.

As the NFL trade deadline looms, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads. Should they maintain their current roster or make a decisive move to bolster their receiving options? This article delves into the top 10 realistic wide receiver trade targets for the Steelers, examining their potential impact and the likelihood of each acquisition.

The Unlikely Prospects

Before diving into the prime targets, it’s important to acknowledge some names frequently circulating in trade rumors that are highly improbable.

• Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals): Trading within the division, especially a player of Higgins’ caliber, is a rarity. The Bengals are unlikely to strengthen a direct rival.
• Garrett Wilson (New York Jets): Drafted high and still on his rookie contract, Wilson represents the Jets’ future. They are invested in his development alongside Aaron Rodgers.
• DK Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks): As the Seahawks currently lead the NFC West, they are in a strong position and unlikely to entertain offers for their star receiver.

The Top 10 Realistic Trade Targets

Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter – the top 10 realistic trade targets who could realistically don the black and gold.

1. Cooper Kupp (Los Angeles Rams) – The Crown Jewel

Cooper Kupp

Cooper Kupp stands alone as the ultimate prize. He possesses the rare ability to dethrone George Pickens as the Steelers’ WR1 from day one.

Strengths:

• Elite route running
• Exceptional hands
• Versatility to line up outside, in the slot, and even in the backfield
• Proven track record as a Super Bowl champion and game-changer

Weaknesses:

• Age (31 years old)
• Recent injury history, particularly his ankle

Why It Makes Sense: Kupp’s skill set transcends any other receiver realistically available. His versatility would unlock a new dimension of offensive creativity for the Steelers.

Estimated Cost: At least a third-round pick, potentially more.

2. Darius Slayton (New York Giants) – The Undervalued Deep Threat

Darius Slayton

Darius Slayton possesses a rare combination of size and speed that has been underutilized in New York.

Strengths:

• Blazing speed (4.34 40-yard dash)
• Downfield threat with the potential to take the top off defenses
• Reliable hands

Weaknesses:

• Limited route tree due to playing with a quarterback who doesn’t utilize his deep threat ability

Why It Makes Sense: Slayton perfectly complements the Steelers’ run-first approach, offering a potent deep threat to keep defenses honest.

Estimated Cost: A fifth-round pick, potentially less.

3. Jakobi Meyers (Las Vegas Raiders) – The Possession Receiver

Jakobi Meyers

Jakobi Meyers may not possess the flash of other receivers, but his reliability and consistency make him a valuable asset.

Strengths:

• Excellent hands
• Physical receiver who excels in contested catch situations
• Willing and effective run blocker

Weaknesses:

• Lacks elite speed and explosiveness

Why It Makes Sense: Meyers offers a reliable target for Russell Wilson, particularly in clutch situations. His run-blocking prowess aligns with the Steelers’ offensive identity.

Estimated Cost: A fifth-round pick.

4. Mike Williams (New York Jets) – The Jump Ball Specialist

Mike Williams

Mike Williams is a true X receiver who excels in winning contested catches and making difficult grabs look routine.

Strengths:

• Imposing size (6’4″, 218 pounds)
• Dominant in jump ball situations
• Reliable hands

Weaknesses:

• Limited route tree
• Lacks elite speed and quickness

Why It Makes Sense: Williams offers a big-bodied target for Wilson, particularly in the red zone.

Estimated Cost: A sixth or seventh-round pick.

5. Christian Kirk (Jacksonville Jaguars) – The Slot Option

Christian Kirk

Christian Kirk is a shifty slot receiver who could add another dimension to the Steelers’ passing attack.

Strengths:

• Quickness and agility
• Reliable hands
• Experience as a punt returner

Weaknesses:

• Lacks ideal size for the outside

Why It Makes Sense: Kirk provides a reliable target over the middle and could excel in the slot.

Estimated Cost: A fourth-round pick.

6. Adam Thielen (Carolina Panthers) – The Veteran Presence

Adam Thielen

Adam Thielen brings a wealth of experience and a knack for finding the end zone.

Strengths:

• Reliable hands
• Savvy route runner
• Red zone threat

Weaknesses:

• Age (33 years old)
• Declining athleticism

Why It Makes Sense: Thielen offers a veteran presence and a reliable target, especially in scoring situations.

Estimated Cost: A fourth or fifth-round pick.

7. Odell Beckham Jr. (Miami Dolphins) – The High-Risk, High-Reward Option

Odell Beckham Jr.

Odell Beckham Jr. remains a polarizing figure, but his talent is undeniable.

Strengths:

• Elite athleticism
• Big-play potential
• Experience in big games

Weaknesses:

• Injury history
• Inconsistent production in recent years

Why It Makes Sense: Beckham Jr. offers a high-risk, high-reward option. If he can regain his Pro Bowl form, he could be a game-changer.

Estimated Cost: A third or fourth-round pick.

8. Kendrick Bourne (New England Patriots) – The Under-the-Radar Target

Kendrick Bourne

Kendrick Bourne is a solid route runner with reliable hands who could provide depth and competition.

Strengths:

• Good route runner
• Reliable hands
• Willing run blocker

Weaknesses:

• Lacks elite speed and athleticism

Why It Makes Sense: Bourne offers a low-risk, potentially high-reward option. He could thrive in a larger role with the Steelers.

Estimated Cost: A fifth or sixth-round pick.

9. John Metchie III (Houston Texans) – The High-Upside Prospect

John Metchie III

John Metchie III is a talented young receiver who has yet to reach his full potential.

Strengths:

• Polished route runner
• Good hands
• Potential to develop into a complete receiver

Weaknesses:

• Limited NFL experience due to injury

Why It Makes Sense: Metchie III offers a high-upside prospect with the potential to develop into a star.

Estimated Cost: A fourth or fifth-round pick.

10. Treylon Burks (Tennessee Titans) – The Size and Physicality Option

Treylon Burks

Treylon Burks is a big-bodied receiver who excels after the catch.

Strengths:

• Size and physicality
• Yards after catch ability
• High ceiling

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent production
• Needs to improve route running

Why It Makes Sense: Burks offers a different skill set than the Steelers’ current receivers, providing a physical presence after the catch.

Estimated Cost: A third or fourth-round pick.

Conclusion

The Steelers face a pivotal decision as the trade deadline approaches. Acquiring a top-tier receiver like Cooper Kupp could significantly bolster their Super Bowl aspirations. However, other viable options like Darius Slayton and Jakobi Meyers offer intriguing possibilities at a lower cost. Ultimately, the Steelers’ willingness to part with draft capital and the availability of these receivers will determine the course of their season.