The NFL trade deadline is rapidly approaching. The league has set the deadline for November 10th, which is now less than two weeks away. There are some definite areas of need this team could shore up before this deadline. With that in mind, here are the top 10 Steelers trade targets to keep an eye on in the coming weeks:
1 Brian Thomas Jr – WR Jacksonville Jaguars
Coming off a rookie season where he had 1,300 yards, 87 receptions, and 10 touchdowns Brian Thomas jr was the last player you’d think would be available two years later. Coming off his benching in the second half of last Sunday’s game, he apparently very much is. It would be a risky move for Omar Khan considering how little production Thomas has had the last season and a half. The reward could be too much to pass up with the Jaguars struggling receiver.
2. Jauan Jennings – WR Minnesota Vikings
It’s a bit of a shock how little Jennings is being used in Minnesota. He only has 5 targets on the season, and is an afterthought in the Vikings offense. Jennings is a perfect fit for what the Steelers want in a receiver. A veteran pass catcher, who’s willing to block in the run game. The compensation for Jauan Jennings would be considerably less than that of Brian Thomas Jr, making him even more attractive as one of the Steelers trade targets.
3. Quenton Nelson – OG Indianapolis Colts
Two things make this a very attractive trade possibility for the Steelers. First, the Colts have now fired their general manager, meaning a fire sale is imminent. Secondly, the Steelers guard position opposite Mason McCormick has been a dumpster fire. This would require Pittsburgh to give up serious assets, and force McCormick to shift back to right guard. Adding Nelson would make this offensive line one of the best units in the league however.
4. Jesse Bates – S Atlanta Falcons
The Steelers don’t have a true free safety on the roster, and Bates is still one of the best in the business. Jessie Bates is a literal turnover machine with 27 career interceptions, and another 12 forced fumbles. This would be a home run addition for the Steelers defense.
5. Chris Godwin – WR Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers are one loss away from a probable fire sale, if they’re not there already. Chris Godwin fits the Omar Khan mold of wide receiver. Well past his prime, with an extensive injury history. If you’re a betting man, the odds on a trade like this are high.
6. Riq Woolen – CB Philadelphia Eagles
After the trade of Joey Porter Jr the team could use some depth at the corner position. Riq Woolen is the tall, long corner the Steelers seem to covet. Depending on how much the Eagles ask for him, this could be a nice fit for the Steelers.
7. DeVonta Smith – WR Philadelphia Eagles
Want to swing for there fences Omar? Well, this is the player to do it with. It’s doubtful the Eagles would be willing to move Smith. But given how bad 2026 has gone for them, Howie Roseman is probably willing to listen on just about anyone on the roster.
8. Stefon Diggs – WR Washinton Commanders
Not willing to swing for the fences Omar? Well then Stefon Diggs is a much less expensive, and a lot more available. The Commanders are a train wreck, and almost certainly will be sellers at the deadline. Diggs still has something left, and would be an upgrade to what the Steelers have left at after Bernard and Metcalf.
9. Isaiah Pola-Mao – S Las Vegas Raiders
There are family ties to Troy Polmalu, so this player immediately gets on the Steelers radar. Pola-Mao is a free safety, so there’s that. He would add depth to a very thin safety position for the Steelers. It’s not impossible he could end up a Steeler before all is said and done.
10. Jalen Tolbert – WR Miami Dolphins
If you listened closely to Mike McCarthy’s latest press conference, he made mention of players that are familiar with his system are out there. Jalen Tolbert played for McCarthy in Dallas, making him a prime target for the Steelers. How much he actually upgrades the room is another question, but Tolbert would add depth to a banged up receiver position.