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Steelers Trading With The Broncos Makes Perfect Sense Now

Originally posted on Steeler Nation
By Anthony G. Halkias II | Last updated Mar 25, 2026 1:09 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receiver room is finally heading into a season with reliable talent, at least at WR1 and WR2. The top spots are occupied by DK Metcalf, the undeniable superstar of the group, and Michael Pittman Jr., the do-it-all, bring-your-lunch-pail-to-work type of wide receiver. It is a perfect pairing. Metcalf’s explosive athleticism and ability to stretch the field complement Pittman’s consistent, hard-nosed approach to the game. Both players are team-first guys who elevate those around them, and the synergy between them could make the Steelers’ passing attack one of the most balanced in the league. With these two as anchors, Pittsburgh finally has stability at the top of the depth chart after years of uncertainty at the position.

The main concern now lies at WR3 and in the slot. The Steelers lost Calvin Austin III to free agency, leaving a noticeable gap in the speed and agility department, while the future of Roman Wilson remains uncertain. This uncertainty leaves fans and analysts wondering whether the team can rely on younger, unproven players to step up, or if they need to pursue outside options to fill the void. Depth is critical in today’s NFL, and the Steelers’ success could hinge on how well they manage these positions. Whoever steps into these roles will need to complement Metcalf and Pittman, whether through explosive big plays, reliable hands in clutch situations, or versatility across multiple formations.

Interestingly enough, Pittsburgh has a unique opportunity to address these needs before the 2026 NFL Draft. The Denver Broncos could be the perfect trade partner if the Steelers decide to pursue a wide receiver via trade. Denver’s roster construction and draft capital align in a way that could benefit both teams: the Steelers could acquire the missing piece to solidify their receiver room, while the Broncos could gain additional draft flexibility.

The Broncos updated WR room:

Jaylen Waddle
Courtland Sutton
Pat Bryant
Troy Franklin
Marvin Mims
Lil’Jordan Humphrey
Michael Bandy pic.twitter.com/KJzGyavDcP
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 17, 2026

If Pittsburgh acts wisely, they could enter the season with a fully functional receiving corps capable of challenging any secondary in the NFL. With Metcalf and Pittman already established, adding a reliable WR3 or slot option could make the Steelers’ passing game as complete as it has been in decades.

The loss of Austin likely won’t be too difficult to replace, but he was reliable in big moments. Aaron Rodgers certainly seemed to love him, and for whatever reason, he didn’t appear as high on Wilson. No one knows for sure if Rodgers will return to play for the Steelers in 2026, but the odds are leaning toward yes. If he does come back, finishing out the wide receiver room becomes even more critical, as Rodgers will want dependable targets alongside Metcalf and Pittman.

Of course, Pittsburgh could look to the draft and likely will, but with all their draft capital, a trade is also an intriguing possibility. The Broncos, who recently acquired Jaylen Waddle, could make a WR3 option available. Marvin Mims and Troy Franklin are both more proven receivers who could step into that role immediately, giving the Steelers a strong, balanced trio at the top of their depth chart. Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has the draft resources to make such a trade feasible, and it will be interesting to see if he chooses this path to complete the final piece of Pittsburgh’s offensive puzzle.

Steelers' Offense Is Trending In Positive Direction

Beyond wide receiver, other areas of the offense are trending positively. The running back room should be improved, and the offensive line is gelling and growing together. If the wide receiver room gets solidified, it would give McCarthy a complete, versatile offensive unit to work with, at least for now, heading into the 2026 season before the draft.

With Metcalf and Pittman anchoring the passing game, and potential upgrades at WR3 or in the slot, Pittsburgh could have one of its most balanced and dangerous offenses in years. Khan should call the Broncos about their plethora of receivers.

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

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