Four Steelers Players Who Could Become Trade Bait

The Pittsburgh Steelers are teetering on the edge. On one side, they have the path to success. If they can find steady ground with a needed victory in Week 5, it might set them on an encouraging path forward.

Alternatively, if the Steelers fall for a second straight game, this team might be in trouble. After a disappointing loss in Week 4 to the Cleveland Browns, being taken out by the Indianapolis Colts would feel like a knockout punch.

So much so, that it might push this team to even more severe action. With multiple players in the final years of their contracts and even more with uncertain futures with the organization, these four players have the chance to become legitimate trade bait before this year's NFL Trade Deadline.

Pat Freiermuth - Tight End With More to Give

The Steelers are trying to figure out their offensive identity, and part of that effort has been focused on getting the tight ends more involved. Pat Freiermuth has been targeted 20 times over four games, hauling in 14 receptions for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

Right now, he's on track for another 500-yard season. It's not exactly All-Pro level, but it's a quality piece of a moving offense. And for the right price from the right team, Freiermuth could be the missing piece on offense.

Depending on how the next few weeks shake out, teams might begin calling about the 27-year-old tight end.

Patrick Queen - Middle Linebacker Rental

In the final year of his deal, it's become apparent that the Steelers and Queen are heading for a split when the 2026 season ends. It might not take the end of the season for things to transpire, however. The Steelers' defense has struggled specifically at the middle linebacker position. Neither Queen nor Payton Wilson has provided the stability needed at the second layer, and it's becoming harder for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham to scheme around their inefficiencies.

But in the right role, Queen still thrives. He's a straight-line tackler who can be an asset in the run game. For the right price, he could be a complementary piece and number two linebacker.