The Los Angeles Chargers have been quiet in the latest NFL rumors, but things could pick up next week as the Pittsburgh Steelers could reportedly acquire one of their wide receivers. While Quentin Johnston is an option, CBS Sports’ Bryan DeArdo predicts the Steelers may trade for former second-round pick Ladd McConkey. DeArdo included a trade package of a 2027 fifth-round pick, but it would mean the Steelers giving up Roman Wilson and a 2027 second-round pick. However, with Wilson on injured reserve, it feels like a lose-lose situation for the Chargers, who are 0-7 and aren’t willing to sell any of their talent.
Los Angeles would trade at least Khalil Mack or Tuli Tuipulotu, right? Unfortunately for the other 31 NFL teams, according to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, the Chargers don’t intend to trade anyone:
“It has confounded rival teams who wish to peck at the Chargers’ carcass before Tuesday. And in searching for a reason, a few executives I spoke with pointed to the head coach specifically,” Jones said.
nfl Rumors
Dec 28, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey (15) makes the touchdown catch against the New England Patriots in the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
NFL Rumors: Chargers, Steelers Connected in Surprise $10M Deal
Pittsburgh Monitoring WR Market
With Wilson and Michael Pittman’s injuries, DK Metcalf is the lone wideout to put the Steelers’ offense over the top. Unfortunately, the former Seattle Seahawk veteran has struggled this season. QB Aaron Rodgers is playing his final NFL season with the Steelers atop the AFC North, and they’re actively monitoring the WR trade market.
While they’ve succeeded despite the injuries, Rodgers needs another offensive threat that elevates the pass-attack for their Super Bowl quest. Does McConkey make sense? Perhaps, but the Steelers are likely to target a veteran pass-catcher with postseason experience rather than a third-year receiver. However, it’s possible it would help the Steelers long-term to acquire the former Georgia product.
After all, the Chargers don’t want to part ways with McConkey, who’s arguably the team’s best pass-catcher. However, if the Chargers receive a high draft selection, they could be willing to strike a deal.
Trade Value Revealed
Ultimately, the wideout isn’t having his best season this year, but has proven to be an offensive threat in the right scenery. While the Chargers don’t have the blueprint for the upcoming postseason, they’ll need to rebuild behind 2026 draft selection Brenen Thompson and other unproven wideouts, including KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Tre Harris. If the Chargers receive a 2027 first-round pick for the second-rounder, they could send him to these five teams.
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Oct 12, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey (15) breaks the tackle of Miami Dolphins cornerback Ethan Bonner (27) during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
Other Potential Destinations