The Pittsburgh Steelers are making waves early in the 2026 NFL offseason. With their eyes set on bringing back Aaron Rodgers after clinching the AFC North with a 10-7 record in 2025, the team isn't putting all its eggs in one basket. Rodgers has a deadline to announce his decision, and unlike last offseason’s drawn-out process, we can expect an answer sooner rather than later.
Meanwhile, the Steelers are keeping their quarterback options open, exploring possibilities with Arizona Cardinals' Kyler Murray. But the quarterback position isn't their only focus. The Steelers are also looking to bolster their wide receiver corps, aiming to find a strong partner for DK Metcalf.
Enter Brian Thomas Jr., the third-year wide receiver from the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to Steelers insider Andrew Fillipponi, the team is in talks with the Jaguars about a potential trade for Thomas. These discussions aren't new, as both teams considered a deal at last year's trade deadline.
Thomas burst onto the scene with an impressive rookie season, racking up 87 receptions, 1,282 yards, and 10 touchdowns over 17 games. However, his numbers took a hit last year, with just 48 catches for 707 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games. A fresh start in Pittsburgh could reignite his career, especially with a quarterback lineup that might include Rodgers, Murray, Kirk Cousins, or even rookie Will Howard.
The outcome of these negotiations remains to be seen, but acquiring Thomas could be a game-changer for the Steelers' offense.