After a 2-2 start, the Pittsburgh Steelers enter their bye week with a 6-2 record and sole possession of first place in the AFC North division. The Steelers' defense ranks third in the NFL in points allowed, having not allowed a touchdown in seven quarters. The offensive line is improving, running back Jaylen Warren is having a breakout season, and backup Rico Dowdle is also making an impact. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is noted for his throwing touch. Despite the strong start, the Steelers lack weaponry at wide receiver, a weakness that could be exposed in the playoffs. Injuries to Roman Wilson and Michael Pittman, plus struggles from DK Metcalf, have put Pittsburgh in the market for a receiver ahead of the NFL's Nov. 10 trade deadline.
Trade 1: Ladd McConkey from Los Angeles Chargers
Steelers receive: Ladd McConkey and a 2027 fifth-round pick. Chargers receive: Roman Wilson and a 2027 second-round pick. McConkey, a former 1,000-yard receiver on his rookie contract, could make an immediate impact and would be under contract through 2027. The fifth-round pick softens the loss of a second-rounder, which Pittsburgh may want to retain for a future quarterback search after Rodgers' retirement.
Trade 2: Brian Thomas Jr. from Jacksonville Jaguars
Steelers receive: Brian Thomas Jr. and a 2027 fifth-round pick. Jaguars receive: a 2027 second-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick. Thomas, a former Pro Bowler at 6-foot-2, 209 pounds, has spent much of the 2026 season on the bench and could benefit from a fresh start. He would provide a big red-zone target for Rodgers and open things up for Metcalf. The Jaguars host Pittsburgh in Week 14, which could complicate a trade.
Trade 3: Jerry Jeudy from Cleveland Browns
Steelers receive: Jerry Jeudy. Browns receive: a 2027 fourth-round pick. Jeudy, a former Pro Bowler two years removed from a 90-catch, 1,229-yard season, needs a change of scenery. The Browns have previously traded with division rivals (Joe Flacco to Cincinnati in 2023), and the teams are done playing each other this season barring a playoff matchup.
Trade 4: Josh Downs from Indianapolis Colts
Steelers receive: Josh Downs. Colts receive: a 2027 third-round pick. Downs, a proven slot receiver with 228 career receptions, would strengthen Pittsburgh's receiving corps without requiring the Steelers to part with any current receivers. However, Downs is slated for free agency after the season, making him a rental, and a bidding war could drive up the price beyond a third-round pick.
