The Pittsburgh Steelers are widely expected to prioritize the wide receiver position this offseason, and one writer believes a blockbuster solution could be within reach.
According to Jacob Punturi of Sports Illustrated, Pittsburgh has the necessary assets and flexibility to pursue a trade for A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Punturi suggests that while the Steelers would likely assume the entirety of Brown’s $23 million salary cap hit in 2026, the compensation required to acquire the Pro Bowl wideout may be surprisingly modest. In his assessment, a third-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft could be sufficient to complete a deal.
“Yes, you read that right. A third-round pick at this year’s NFL Draft would be enough to pry Brown out of Philadelphia,” Punturi wrote. “The Eagles would welcome a return for their largest headache and would happily take that pick to grab a replacement.”
Brown, 28, has been with the Eagles since 2022 and remains one of the league’s most productive receivers. He surpassed 1,000 receiving yards last season, marking the sixth time in his career he has reached that milestone. Despite his production, reports of tension between Brown and head coach Nick Sirianni have fueled speculation about his long-term future in Philadelphia.
For Pittsburgh, the appeal is obvious. Outside of DK Metcalf, the Steelers’ wide receiver room lacks proven production. Adding a player of Brown’s caliber would immediately transform the offense and provide a premier target capable of stretching defenses and elevating the passing attack.
The financial commitment would be significant, and any trade would require careful cap management. However, if the reported price is accurate, acquiring a 28-year-old, six-time 1,000-yard receiver for a third-round pick could represent a rare opportunity.
Whether the Eagles are truly prepared to move on from one of their top offensive weapons remains to be seen. But if Brown becomes available at that price, the Steelers would be hard-pressed not to explore a move of that magnitude.