The Pittsburgh Steelers may lack many explosive offensive playmakers, but they’ve managed to secure a 5-2 record while averaging 34.5 points per game over their last two outings.
With Russell Wilson now established as the starting quarterback, the Steelers are likely looking to bolster their roster by acquiring a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver.
Bradley Locker from Pro Football Focus mentioned on October 22 that Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams could be a target. If Les Snead is open to trading Kupp, Pittsburgh would be an ideal trade partner.
Offensively, the Steelers have faced challenges in Arthur Smith’s first season as play caller, particularly in their passing game. They rank 13th in expected points added (EPA) per play, mainly due to a receiving corps that also ranks 13th in receiving grade.
The absence of a reliable No. 2 receiver alongside George Pickens has certainly capped the offense’s potential. Omar Khan has been actively seeking a complementary piece for Pickens over the past year but has come up short in pursuing big names like Brandon Aiyuk and Davante Adams. Perhaps Kupp could finally provide that solution.
Pittsburgh’s interest in both Aiyuk this summer and Adams earlier this month highlights their ongoing desire to add a wide receiver. Additionally, the fact that AFC rivals like the New York Jets traded for Adams and the Kansas City Chiefs secured DeAndre Hopkins suggests the Steelers may need to upgrade their receiving corps if they wish to remain competitive in the conference.
Kupp, 31, led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions in 2021 but has struggled with injuries since then. He caught 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 but has missed the last five games due to an ankle injury.
Kupp is anticipated to play against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football, which takes place 12 days before the league’s trade deadline on November 5. He is currently under an $80 million contract that extends through 2026.
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