The Pittsburgh Steelers enter their bye week with a 6-2 record and sole possession of first place in the AFC North after a 2-2 start. The defense ranks third in the NFL in points allowed, having not surrendered a touchdown in seven quarters, while the offensive line is improving. Running back Jaylen Warren is having a breakout season, backed by Rico Dowdle, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers retains his elite touch. Despite the strong start, the Steelers lack a proven wide receiver, a weakness that could be exposed in the playoffs, especially with injuries to Roman Wilson and Michael Pittman and DK Metcalf's struggles.
With the NFL trade deadline set for November 10, CBS Sports outlines four mock trades that could address the receiver need.
Trade 1: Ladd McConkey
In one scenario, the Steelers would acquire Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey and a 2027 fifth-round pick in exchange for Roman Wilson and a 2027 second-round pick. McConkey, a former 1,000-yard receiver on his rookie contract, would provide immediate impact and remain under contract through 2027. The Chargers might accept the deal to gain a second-round pick and a potential replacement in Wilson, who played under Jim Harbaugh at Michigan.
Trade 2: Brian Thomas Jr.
Another proposal sends Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh for a 2027 second-round and sixth-round pick. The 6-foot-2, 209-pound former Pro Bowler has seen limited action in 2026 and could benefit from a fresh start. The trade would give Rodgers a big red-zone target and complement DK Metcalf, though Jacksonville faces Pittsburgh in Week 14.
Trade 3: Jerry Jeudy
A divisional deal with the Browns would bring Jerry Jeudy to Pittsburgh for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Jeudy, two years removed from a 90-catch, 1,229-yard season, seeks a change of scenery. Cleveland has previously traded within the division, and the teams do not meet again in the regular season.
Trade 4: Josh Downs
Finally, the Steelers could acquire Colts slot receiver Josh Downs for a 2027 third-round pick. Downs, with 228 career receptions, would be a rental entering free agency after the season. The Colts, in rebuild mode, gain draft capital, while Pittsburgh avoids parting with any current receivers.
Each trade carries risks, including draft capital expenditure and potential bidding wars, but any addition could strengthen Pittsburgh's Super Bowl aspirations.
