Insider questions Steelers being linked with Raiders' Davante Adams

While numerous NFL reporters have linked disgruntled Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams to the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, Dianna Russini of The Athletic and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport have reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers have been "in contact with the Raiders' front office to discuss trade scenarios" and said that Adams "is open to playing for" Pittsburgh. 

During an appearance on Pittsburgh sports radio station 93.7 The Fan, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk likened Pittsburgh's pursuit of Adams to how the club failed to acquire San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk this summer. 

"I don't know that Davante Adams wants to go to Pittsburgh," Florio said, as shared by Matthew Marczi of Steelers Depot. "But when you look at the depth chart, they could use Davante Adams. The question is, does Davante Adams want to go there? I just feel like it's deja vu all over again with Brandon Aiyuk." 

The Steelers first explored a trade for Aiyuk before this year's draft and seemed close to finalizing a deal for his services in August before it became clear he preferred to stay with San Francisco. He ultimately received his desired contract extension from the 49ers ahead of Week 1. 

As for Adams, he previously played alongside Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Saints signal-caller Derek Carr. Rapoport directly said that "New York is where the Raiders star wants to play," so a club such as the Steelers may hesitate to meet Las Vegas' asking price for Adams even if his current employer pays off some of his contract, as Russini and Florio suggested. 

The Raiders reportedly want "a package that would include a second-round draft pick and additional compensation" for Adams. 

"I think the Steelers would have to get [Adams] at their right price," Florio added. "That takes us back to the Brandon Aiyuk conversation. The Steelers were dug in on what they would give the 49ers, what they would pay Brandon Aiyuk." 

Adams would instantly become the top target for a Steelers team that started the season at 3-1. However, Pittsburgh seemingly isn't as all-in on winning now as is a Jets side that has a 40-year-old as its starting quarterback.

Rapoport said that "no (Adams) trade is expected at least until next week at the earliest," meaning the Raiders may be simply waiting to see if the Jets fall to 2-3 on the campaign and then become desperate to land Rodgers' good friend. Gang Green faces the 4-0 Minnesota Vikings in London this Sunday.