Steelers Eyeing Jets’ Garrett Wilson as Potential WR1 Fix?
The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively searching for a new superstar wide receiver to elevate their passing game. Could Garrett Wilson, the New York Jets’ budding young star, be the answer? Recent speculation suggests that the Steelers might consider giving the Jets a call if Wilson were to become available.
Could Wilson Be on the Move?
At just 24 years old, Garrett Wilson has already established himself as one of the most promising receivers in the NFL. However, reports suggest that Wilson might request a trade if Aaron Rodgers returns as the Jets’ quarterback in 2025. While the Jets are unlikely to entertain trade offers for their young phenom, the scenario has sparked conversations about possible landing spots if a move were to occur.
Wilson is under team control for the next two seasons, making him a valuable asset the Jets should retain. Still, FanSided’s Zachary Rotman speculated about potential destinations for Wilson, placing the Steelers at the top of his list.
Steelers: A Perfect Fit?
Rotman’s reasoning for linking Wilson to the Steelers is compelling:
“Every time a high-end wide receiver becomes available, the Pittsburgh Steelers are mentioned as a potential suitor,” Rotman explained. “If Wilson did become available, chances are, the Steelers will be in the mix of interested teams. He’d help them immensely if they did get him. The Steelers do have George Pickens, but is he reliable enough on and off the field to be considered a true WR1?”
Pittsburgh’s wide receiver room is thin behind Pickens, who has shown flashes of brilliance but remains unproven as a consistent WR1. Tight end Pat Freiermuth and receiver Calvin Austin III have been respectable secondary options, but neither has emerged as a game-changing playmaker. Wilson’s ability to thrive even without elite quarterback play—demonstrated during his time with the Jets—makes him an ideal target for a team like the Steelers, who are still developing their franchise quarterback situation.
A History of Interest in Top Receivers
The Steelers have consistently been tied to high-profile receivers over the past year. Brandon Aiyuk, Davante Adams, and Mike Williams have all been linked to Pittsburgh as potential trade targets. If Wilson were to hit the trade market, the Steelers would likely make inquiries.
However, acquiring a player of Wilson’s caliber would not come cheap. The Jets would likely demand significant draft capital or impactful players in return. For the Steelers, who pride themselves on developing talent through the draft, this might not be an easy decision.
Will the Steelers Make the Call?
While the idea of Wilson donning black and gold is tantalizing for Steelers fans, the likelihood of such a move remains uncertain. For now, it’s merely speculation, but Pittsburgh’s ongoing search for a true WR1 keeps them in the conversation whenever a star receiver’s name surfaces in trade rumors.
If Wilson were to become available, there’s little doubt that the Steelers would at least pick up the phone. Whether they can strike a deal is another matter entirely, but the possibility of adding a player of Wilson’s caliber would be a game-changer for Pittsburgh’s offense.
