As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are exploring options to enhance their wide receiver corps, particularly to support veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With a strong start to the season, the Steelers are looking to capitalize on their momentum, and adding a dynamic receiver could significantly improve their offense. One name that has emerged as a potential target is Rashid Shaheed of the New Orleans Saints.
Shaheed’s speed and ability to stretch the field make him an appealing option for Pittsburgh. He has demonstrated impressive performance since entering the league, averaging 15.6 yards per reception, which ranks among the best in the NFL. The Steelers, who recently traded for DK Metcalf, still face questions about their depth at the position, making Shaheed an ideal addition to complement their offensive strategy.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints, NFL
Sep 14, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (22) heads off the field after the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Analysts have proposed that the Steelers could acquire Shaheed for a relatively modest price, such as a mid-round draft pick. This would allow the team to bolster their receiving options without sacrificing significant assets. Given that Shaheed is set to become a free agent after the season, the Saints may be open to trading him to gain some value before losing him to free agency.
The Steelers’ offense has shown promise, but the addition of a player like Shaheed could elevate their performance to another level. With Rodgers looking to make one final push for a championship, surrounding him with capable weapons is crucial. Shaheed’s explosive speed could create additional opportunities for the offense, particularly in the vertical game.
NFL Analysis Urges Pittsburgh Steelers to Acquire Rasheed Shaheed as Aaron Rodgers’ New Weapon
Pittsburgh Steelers, Aaron Rodgers, NFL
Oct 12, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks to pass against the Cleveland Browns during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh has a chance to add another versatile weapon for Rodgers to make the most of on the field. This is detailed more in an analysis by Bill Barnwell for ESPN.
Enter Shaheed, who is a free agent after the season. Since entering the league in 2022, the undrafted Weber State product has averaged 15.6 yards per reception, fourth best in the NFL over that span. He has also been a return man in the past, something the Steelers wouldn’t mind adding after taking rookie Kaleb Johnson off kick returns in September. Shaheed will make $2.8 million over the remainder of 2025, a very reasonable price for what he brings to the table as a secondary option in the passing game.
The 1-5 Saints value Shaheed’s impact downfield, but they’ve already invested a lot at wide receiver. Chris Olave is locked in as their No. 1, and they paid Brandin Cooks to play regular snaps in 2025. GM Mickey Loomis traded a fourth-round pick to the Broncos for Devaughn Vele, but the second-year pro has just four catches through five games.
And though he battled a hip injury in September, Vele has played just 35% of the snaps over the past two weeks. The Saints also swapped late-round picks with the Patriots for Ja’Lynn Polk, hoping to get value on a 2024 second-round pick who looked impressive at Washington. Polk is on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, but he’s expected to be part of the wide receiver rotation in 2026.
As the trade deadline nears, the Steelers need to make strategic decisions to enhance their chances for a successful season. The combination of Metcalf and Shaheed could provide a formidable duo, allowing Rodgers to maximize his effectiveness as he leads the team.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints, NFL
Sep 14, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (22) during warmups against the San Francisco 49ers at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The potential trade for Rashid Shaheed represents a proactive step for the Steelers as they aim to support their playoff ambitions. By adding speed and depth to their receiving corps, they could significantly enhance their offensive capabilities heading into the critical weeks of the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints, NFL
Oct 13, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (22) during warmups before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
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