Steelers Considering Bold Move for DeAndre Hopkins Ahead of Trade Deadline
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in urgent need of a wide receiver as the Nov. 4 trade deadline approaches. With the current roster lacking depth at the position, the team is exploring options to strengthen its receiving core.
Current Receiver Situation
Entering the season, DK Metcalf was projected as the Steelers’ top target. However, with Calvin Austin sidelined due to an injury, the depth chart has become a cause for concern. Austin, who is currently positioned as the No. 2 receiver, is more suited for a third-string role. This leaves the Steelers in a precarious situation, as they seek to elevate their offensive game.
Recent buzz indicates that the Steelers are actively shopping for a wide receiver. CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell has speculated that the team could make a surprising move by acquiring DeAndre Hopkins from division rivals, the Baltimore Ravens.
Trade Dynamics
Podell suggested, “The acquisition cost for Hopkins shouldn’t be high given his age, and the Ravens won’t need his services much longer with one of football’s worst defenses making it nearly impossible for whoever lines up at quarterback for them to win games. It seems like a win-win deal for two bitter AFC North rivals.”
While the notion of an in-division trade is intriguing, there are significant hurdles to consider. The Ravens, even amid a disappointing season, are unlikely to part ways with Hopkins, especially to a rival team. Yet, history shows that unexpected trades within the division can happen. The recent Joe Flacco trade between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns reminds us that anything is possible.
If the Ravens find themselves at a dismal 1-7 or 2-6 as the deadline looms, they might reconsider their position if Pittsburgh presents a compelling offer.
Hopkins’ Current Performance
DeAndre Hopkins, a seven-time 1,000-yard receiver, has seen better days at 33 years old. Despite this, he’s demonstrated that he still has some effectiveness left, accumulating 178 receiving yards in just six games this season. His production could have been greater had Lamar Jackson not missed two games due to injury.
Even with his diminished status, Hopkins’ numbers would rank him second on the Steelers’ current roster, indicating that his addition would significantly enhance their offensive capabilities. Pairing him with Metcalf could create a formidable duo that outclasses the current receiving options.
Looking Ahead
While the ideal scenario might involve the Steelers pursuing a younger, more dynamic player, the reality is that such opportunities may not be within reach. General manager Omar Khan could do much worse than bringing in a seasoned veteran like Hopkins to fortify the Steelers’ aerial attack.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Steelers must weigh their options carefully, balancing the potential for immediate improvement against the long-term vision for the team. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the clock is ticking, and the Steelers are in search of a game-changing solution.