GREAT NEWS: The Steelers are reportedly set to Make Blockbuster WR Trade
A former NFL executive has advised the Steelers to make a massive trade for a wide receiver.
The closer the Pittsburgh Steelers go to the 2024 season, the more pressure there is on the franchise to make a significant move. The wide receiver area still needs to be upgraded, and time is running out to do it.
Doug Whaley, a former Steeler and NFL executive, agrees. He is pressing the squad to be bold and pursue a difference-maker to complement George Pickens on the outside. He appeared on 93.7 The Fan to voice his support for the group.
“Before the start of the season is a better chance than before the start of camp,” the coach stated. “Now, put on your John Lynch hat.” Why would you trade him right now? Wait until the camp starts. There will be injuries. And, guess what? The price just went up. So, from a Steeler standpoint, if you want him, grab him now, because you’ll have to pay a lot more later.
Whaley expresses what Steelers Nation as a whole is experiencing. Aiyuk is an outstanding receiver in the NFL, and he would provide a dynamic element that the squad sorely lacks. He is coming off a career-high 1,342-yard season. Pairing him and Pickens would give the Steelers a one-two.
The Steelers continue to face the same difficulties and worries. Aiyuk wants a big contract extension with any team he ends playing with. The asking price is reportedly $30 million per year or higher. The Steelers have never handed a receiver a deal like that, and it’s unlikely they’d break it for Aiyuk. They could handle his cap hit in 2024, but beyond that is a question.
The other issue is the 49ers’ asking price. To lure Aiyuk to Pittsburgh, the Steelers will most likely need to trade a first-round selection pick as well as other assets. While Omar Khan’s reputation is more aggressive than his predecessor’s, the premium for Aiyuk may still be prohibitively high.
Perhaps the Steelers have already taken Whaley’s counsel. Khan has been monitoring and negotiating with San Francisco since the NFL Draft, so the franchise is still interested. The Steelers face a significant financial and contractual commitment, but if they believe Aiyuk is the answer on offense, they must be aggressive and get his services.
