The Pittsburgh Steelers are enjoying a strong season, boasting a 5-2 record after a decisive victory over the New York Jets on Sunday Night Football in Week 7. This success positions them as one of the more formidable teams in the AFC, a status they’ve quietly claimed amidst a competitive landscape.
Despite some inconsistency in their offensive performance earlier in the season, the Steelers have found their rhythm, particularly over the past two weeks, where they have scored 30 points in both games. This offensive surge has been bolstered by the rushing attack led by running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, who have effectively established the ground game as the team’s primary offensive identity.
However, while the ground game has flourished, the receiving corps has not been as productive. Aside from standout wide receiver George Pickens, the Steelers have struggled to generate reliable contributions from their other receivers. This lack of depth in the passing game is a pressing issue that the team needs to address before the NFL trade deadline approaches.
Given this situation, analysts have begun to speculate about potential trade targets to enhance the Steelers’ receiving corps. Pro Football Focus’ Bradley Locker has suggested that Los Angeles Rams receiver Cooper Kupp could be an ideal addition for Pittsburgh. With the Rams potentially open to trading Kupp, the Steelers might find themselves in a favorable position to make a deal.
The Steelers have historically faced challenges on offense, especially under the current play-calling scheme of Arthur Smith, which has seen mixed results. While Pittsburgh ranks 13th in expected points added (EPA) per play, their receiving corps only manages to hold the same rank in terms of receiving grade, revealing a significant reliance on Pickens without a reliable No. 2 option to complement him.
General manager Omar Khan has been proactive in seeking an additional playmaker to bolster the receiving group, having previously pursued big-name players like Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams without success. Kupp could potentially fill that void and elevate the team’s offensive capabilities significantly.
However, there are valid concerns surrounding a trade for Kupp. His health has been an issue, as he has only played in 23 of 51 possible games since the start of the 2022 season. At 31 years old, he is also nearing the end of his prime, leading to questions about his long-term viability. Despite these risks, Kupp’s track record as one of the league’s elite route runners and his impressive statistics, including multiple seasons with over 90 receptions, highlight his potential value to the Steelers.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that the Rams are seeking a second-round pick for Kupp in any trade scenario. While this would require the Steelers to part with a premium draft pick, it is notable that the Rams are willing to absorb some of Kupp’s salary for 2024, making the deal more attractive.
In summary, while trading for Kupp carries risks, it could also provide the Steelers with the additional offensive firepower they need to contend for a championship. If Pittsburgh aims to secure a seventh Super Bowl title, pursuing a trade for Kupp might be a strategic move worth considering.
