Will The Steelers Trade Their Top Wide Receiver? Latest Updates

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

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Diontae Johnson's Contract Situation and Trade Value

Diontae Johnson's contract status is a key factor driving the trade speculation. Understanding his current deal, his performance, and his value on the open market is crucial to assessing the possibility of a trade.

• Current Contract Details: Johnson's current contract specifics aren't publicly available in granular detail, but his cap hit and remaining years are key considerations for the Steelers. Any potential trade would need to account for this financial aspect. A higher salary cap hit makes him a less attractive trade candidate, unless the Steelers are willing to eat some of that salary.

• Key Performance Metrics: Johnson has shown flashes of brilliance, displaying excellent route-running and reliable hands. However, consistency has been a question mark. Examining his yards per reception, touchdowns, and overall reception numbers from recent seasons is crucial. Analyzing his performance against top-tier defenses offers further insight into his true potential and market value.

• Comparison to Other Recently Traded Wide Receivers: Comparing Johnson's statistics, age, and contract situation to recently traded wide receivers like Brandin Cooks or Stefon Diggs (albeit a different tier of player) helps establish a potential range for his trade value. These comparisons inform what the Steelers might realistically expect in return for a trade.

• Potential Asking Price: Considering his performance, contract, and the current market for wide receivers, the Steelers would likely seek a mid-round draft pick or a package including a later-round pick and a player. The asking price will depend greatly on the level of desperation shown by a potential trade partner.

Potential Trade Partners and Their Needs

Several teams could benefit from adding a receiver like Diontae Johnson to their roster. Their need, cap space, and draft capital will determine who emerges as the most likely trading partner.

• List of Potential Trade Partners: Teams with a demonstrable need at wide receiver and sufficient draft capital are the most likely candidates. Consider teams that have underperformed in the receiving department, especially those with a young quarterback who needs support. Teams with more draft capital would be better positioned to make a suitable offer.

• Current Salary Cap Situations: A team's available cap space is critical. Acquiring Johnson necessitates room to accommodate his contract, which influences the likelihood of a team making a serious bid. Teams with limited cap space will be less likely to engage in trade talks.

• Analysis of Their Draft Position and Potential Trade Offers: A team's draft position plays a role; those with fewer high picks might be more willing to trade assets for an immediate impact player like Johnson. Analyzing their likely draft targets and existing roster needs will indicate the value they place on a potential acquisition.

• How Johnson's Skillset Would Complement Their Existing Roster: The fit is important. Does Johnson fill a specific need, or would he be redundant? Teams will seek a player who directly improves their team's performance, suggesting that teams lacking a strong #1 receiver are the most suitable landing spots.

The Steelers' Draft Strategy and Roster Needs

The Steelers' draft strategy and the team's overall roster needs significantly influence the likelihood of a Diontae Johnson trade.

• Steelers' Current Draft Picks: The number and value of the Steelers' draft picks dictate what they're willing to give up. Holding multiple high draft picks increases their negotiating leverage and ability to seek a greater return in a trade.

• Potential Draft Targets at Wide Receiver: If the Steelers believe the draft offers comparable talent at a lower cost, they're more likely to trade Johnson. Scouting and draft-board analysis is crucial here.

• Free Agent Wide Receiver Options: The availability and cost of free agent wide receivers provide an alternative to trading Johnson. If the Steelers find a suitable free agent, it reduces their need to trade Johnson and retain draft picks.

• The Overall Impact on the Team's Offensive Strategy: Trading Johnson would force a change in offensive strategy, necessitating a thorough assessment of the team's needs and a re-evaluation of their preferred offensive style.

The Impact of a Potential Trade on Kenny Pickett's Development

Trading Diontae Johnson would undeniably impact Kenny Pickett's development. A strong receiving corps is essential for a young quarterback's growth.

• The loss of a proven receiver could hinder Pickett's progress if a suitable replacement isn't found. A reliable, experienced receiver like Johnson provides valuable support and confidence.

• The team chemistry and morale could suffer if the trade is poorly handled. The remaining receivers would need to adjust quickly to fill Johnson’s void. Maintaining a positive team environment during and after a trade is vital.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to trade Diontae Johnson presents a complex dilemma for the Steelers. While trading him could provide valuable draft picks or players to bolster other areas of the team, it also risks destabilizing the offense and hindering Kenny Pickett's development. The Steelers' decision will hinge on their assessment of the available alternatives, their long-term vision, and their confidence in their existing and prospective roster. The uncertainty remains, highlighting the fluid nature of NFL transactions.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Steelers' potential trade of their top wide receiver. Keep checking back for the latest news and analysis on this developing story. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding the Steelers' wide receiver position and the potential trade of Diontae Johnson.