Blockbuster trade proposal sends Steelers veteran to Lions or 49ers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking good ahead of the new season, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, new head coach Mike McCarthy and company have plenty of reasons to be optimistic.

So, now that the Steelers have a new coach in McCarthy, changes are being made. It's not over yet, either. Chances are, before the new season starts, the Steelers will look even more different than they did at the end of their 2025 run.

Now, McCarthy, general manager Omar Khan and the powers at be are being urged to cut ties with a veteran talent. The Steelers drafted this player in 2020 with their 102nd overall pick, and he's been a solid addition ever since. But, the time may have come for Pittsburgh to part ways with him and bank on some of his trade stock.

Steelers told to part ways with longtime Pittsburgh player

That player is edge rusher Alex Highsmith. In a piece out Monday for Bleacher Report, Kristopher Knox has the Steelers trading him to either the Lions or 49ers in return for a conditional 2027 third-round pick and veteran player.

Even though the Steelers haven't actively been shopping Highsmith, Knox notes that "a strong offer should at least generate some interest in Pittsburgh." It would, however, take a strong offer, though, as Knox adds that it "would probably take a Day 2 pick and more — possibly another receiver to help Rodgers — to land him."

The Steelers could save $14.5 million in 2026 cap space by trading Highsmith. But will they do it? It's a longshot, but if the offer is sweet enough, that would entice the Steelers to act.