With a surging 4-1 record and veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the charge, the Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to make aggressive moves at the 2025 NFL trade deadline. This deep dive explores the key wide receivers, offensive linemen, and linebackers Pittsburgh could target to bolster their roster and solidify their Super Bowl LIX contention.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have unequivocally signaled their intent for the 2025 NFL season, going all-in by signing 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This bold move has paid dividends, with the team rocketing to a 4-1 start and currently sitting atop the AFC North standings. This early success, coupled with the struggles of their division rivals—the Cincinnati Bengals reeling from Joe Burrow’s toe injury and the Baltimore Ravens battling a dismal 1-5 record—has intensified Pittsburgh’s conviction: now is the time to strike.
As the NFL’s Nov. 4 trade deadline approaches, the Steelers’ front office, led by general manager Omar Khan, is expected to aggressively pursue talent to shore up remaining roster needs. While the team already made a significant offseason splash by acquiring star wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Pittsburgh remains keen on adding another playmaking wide receiver. Beyond the receiving corps, improvements along the offensive line and at linebacker could transform the Steelers from a strong playoff contender into a true Super Bowl favorite.
A Persistent Quest for Receiving Depth: A Historical Perspective
The Steelers’ pursuit of a high-end receiver is not a new storyline; it has been a consistent theme for months. In the past, Pittsburgh aggressively chased big names like Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers, as well as Amari Cooper, DeAndre Hopkins, and Davante Adams, all of whom ultimately landed with other AFC competitors. The departure of former Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Baltimore Ravens further underscored the need for reinforcements.
In the 2024 offseason, attempts to bolster the receiving corps included signing Mike Williams, a move described as a “desperate attempt” after failing to secure Aiyuk, according to Article No. 2. The 2024 NFL Draft saw the Steelers select rookie Roman Wilson in the third round, but he was primarily seen as a slot weapon and was recently placed on injured reserve, never close to earning a major role. This ongoing need for a reliable, game-changing wideout has pushed the Steelers to the forefront of trade discussions, with insider James Palmer telling Bleacher Report he would be “shocked” if a deal for a receiver isn’t made.
Top Wide Receiver Targets for the 2025 Deadline
With Aaron Rodgers‘ veteran presence and the “all-in” mandate, the Steelers are targeting players who can make an immediate impact alongside DK Metcalf. Here are some of the most compelling names linked to Pittsburgh:
- A.J. Brown (WR, Philadelphia Eagles): The 28-year-old wideout has reportedly experienced inconsistent connections with Jalen Hurts this season and even appeared to express discontent in a cryptic social media post after a two-catch, seven-yard outing in Week 4. A reunion with college teammate DK Metcalf, with whom Brown complemented well at Ole Miss, could be a game-changer for Pittsburgh, adding much-needed inside-outside versatility.
- Calvin Ridley (WR, Tennessee Titans): Following a 1-5 start, the Titans fired head coach Brian Callahan, likely pushing them into “seller” territory. Ridley, who turns 31 in December, offers significant downfield capabilities, as evidenced by his 131-yard performance in Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals. Moving to a No. 2 role opposite Metcalf could allow him to recapture his 1,000-yard form from previous seasons.
- Jakobi Meyers (WR, Las Vegas Raiders): While Calvin Austin III has shown flashes of talent, the Steelers could benefit from an upgrade in the slot. Meyers, a 6-2, 193-pound veteran, is known for his steady hands and reliability, making him an ideal security blanket for Rodgers over the middle. He’s on pace for impressive numbers in 2025 and could further elevate his play with Rodgers.
- Chris Olave (WR, New Orleans Saints): The Saints are reportedly in a full-fledged rebuild, and Olave’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2026 season. Though he’s averaged a career-low 8.8 yards per reception this season, his playing style aligns perfectly with Rodgers’ tendencies; 75% of Rodgers’ passes have been within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage, a zone where Olave has seen a majority of his targets. Olave also offers slot versatility, making him a plug-and-play option.
- Jauan Jennings (WR, San Francisco 49ers): Set to be a free agent, Jennings requested a trade before the season due to a contract dispute. Currently battling five broken ribs and multiple ankle sprains, his toughness and physicality would be a valuable asset to Pittsburgh’s receiver room once healthy.
- Allen Lazard (WR, New York Jets): A familiar target for Rodgers, Lazard accepted an $8.5 million pay cut earlier in the season, bringing his base salary to just $1.75 million. While not a primary receiver, the 6-5, 227-pound veteran could provide a situational red-zone threat and would be an affordable acquisition, likely for a late-round pick swap.
Fortifying the Trenches: Offensive Line Targets
Beyond the glamour of wide receivers, the Steelers recognize the importance of protecting Aaron Rodgers and bolstering their offensive line. Depth at offensive tackle is crucial, and a player who could challenge current left-side starter Broderick Jones could be on their radar.
Braxton Jones (OT, Chicago Bears): With 44 career starts at left tackle, Braxton Jones presents an intriguing gamble. Recently benched by the Bears in favor of an undrafted rookie, he has still graded marginally better than Pittsburgh’s own Broderick Jones, who Pro Football Focus currently ranks as the 67th tackle out of 76 qualifiers after allowing four sacks and committing four penalties this season. At minimum, Braxton Jones would provide solid swing tackle depth; at best, he could push for a starting role, offering a significant upgrade over the team’s current left tackle situation, as noted by Pro Football Focus.
Bolstering the Defense: Linebacker Upgrades
While the Steelers’ defense has rounded into form, a weakness at linebacker remains a point of concern, particularly with Payton Wilson struggling alongside Patrick Queen. Adding a veteran presence or a consistent young talent could elevate the unit.
- Demario Davis (LB, New Orleans Saints): At 36, Davis remains one of the NFL’s premier run defenders and a top inside linebacker. As the Saints navigate a full rebuild, they may be willing to part with the veteran, offering Pittsburgh an immediate upgrade to shore up the middle of their defense.
- Jordyn Brooks (LB, Miami Dolphins): Nine years younger than Davis at 27, Brooks brings consistency, if not always flash. He’s been a steady force for a struggling Dolphins defense and could thrive surrounded by more talent in Pittsburgh. Brooks leads the NFL with 66 tackles through six games, showcasing his relentless motor and tackling prowess.
The Fan Pulse: Urgency and Expectation
The sentiment within the Steelers’ fan community is palpable: a trade is not just hoped for, but expected. The front office’s demonstrated aggression in past trade discussions, combined with the clear need for additional playmakers, has fueled speculation. Fans are eagerly discussing potential day-3 picks or even more significant capital that could be used to acquire a much-needed No. 2 receiver or critical defensive depth. The consensus is clear: if the Steelers are truly all-in, the trade deadline presents a pivotal opportunity to solidify their Super Bowl LIX aspirations.
This “blockbuster quest” for a game-breaking receiver, though challenging due to cap space and team reluctance, remains a prominent topic. Article 2 even highlighted the hypothetical pursuit of a “disgruntled superstar” like Tyreek Hill in the 2025 offseason, showcasing the ongoing desire for explosive playmakers. With Aaron Rodgers at the helm, the Steelers have a rare window of opportunity, and any strategic acquisitions at the deadline could be the key to unlocking their full potential and making a deep postseason run.
