For the second year in a row, the Pittsburgh Steelers might be giving the San Francisco 49ers a call about a wide receiver trade.
Last year, it was Brandon Aiyuk, who ultimately signed an extension with San Fran. This year, it is Jauan Jennings, who is looking for a contract extension from the Niners, and if he doesn’t get it, he wants to be traded.
Because of their need at wide receiver, Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports naturally named the Steelers as a possible landing spot for Jennings.
“Why not?” Benjamin asked. “The Steelers haven’t been shy about their interest in bolstering Aaron Rodgers’ supporting cast, even with DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith already plugged in as new weapons at receiver and tight end, respectively. And Jennings might cost a lot less than another premium target.
“Better yet, he brings the kind of rugged physicality and positional versatility that offensive coordinator Arthur Smith would likely prefer. You can bet Rodgers would appreciate the big-game savviness Jennings also brings to the table, having played for several title contenders.”
With their need for a better DK Metcalf running mate in the wake of the George Pickens trade, the Steelers absolutely should be interested in the underrated wide receiver, who nearly broke 1,000 yards for the first time in his career in 2024.
On top of having to give up draft capital for him (likely a Day 3 pick), Pittsburgh would obviously have to extend him, which we could see them doing given how aggressive general manager Omar Khan has been.
Spotrac projects Jennings will get a two-year, $20 million deal.
However, a recent report suggests the Steelers aren’t going to make another significant move to bring in a pass-catcher following the trade that acquired Jonnu Smith. Jennings would qualify as such given his desire for an extension, also.
Furthermore, the Steelers might be hesitant to deal with another Niners wide receiver after the circus that was Aiyuk in 2024.
Should the Steelers trade for Jennings? Yes.
Do we think it’ll happen? No.
