Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan recently stated that he was content with the team’s pass-catchers after trading away George Pickens.
However, actions speak louder than words and if recent rumors are true, the Steelers are not as content with the group as they’re letting on.
According to FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz, the Steelers have had “preliminary conversations” with multiple teams about “adding another playmaker.”
“The Steelers have had preliminary conversations with multiple teams about potentially adding another playmaker on offense to complement DK Metcalf, per multiple sources,” Schultz reported. “Pittsburgh is believed to be motivated to get a deal done at some point, though there’s still plenty of time before the season.”
So, who are the Steelers potentially after? Well, we have a few names.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers have spoken with the Miami Dolphins about a trade for tight end Jonnu Smith, who is fresh off a career-best campaign where he tallied 884 yards and eight touchdowns en route to a Pro Bowl nod.
Schefter adds that Smith is looking for a new contract after his impressive season, which has led to the Dolphins’ search for a trade partner.
Another player the Steelers are reportedly targeting is Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Trey Palmer, according to Zachary Smith of Steelers Now.
A former sixth-round pick of the Buccaneers in 2023, Palmer has tallied 557 yards over two seasons in the NFL, including 172 in 15 games in 2024. He would be nothing more than a depth piece, at best, if added.
While it is at least somewhat surprising the Steelers are interested in adding another tight end behind Pat Freiermuth, there is a connection with Smith, who played under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith in Tennessee.
Smith is an explosive and versatile weapon that can line up just about anywhere on the football field, so Pittsburgh can find room for him in the offense as a second tight end. That said, possibly having to extend Smith might be a turn off.
The addition of Smith would be better than nothing, no doubt, but Pittsburgh should be aiming higher, and specifically at wide receiver.
