ClutchPoints
The Pittsburgh Steelers have reached a critical juncture in their 2025 season. At 4-3 and coming off consecutive losses to Cincinnati and Green Bay, the team desperately needs to address their glaring wide receiver depth issues behind DK Metcalf. While the Jaguars have publicly stated they have “no plans to move Brian Thomas Jr.”, the reality is that Jacksonville is quietly listening to offers for their struggling second-year receiver. For the Steelers, this presents a golden opportunity to acquire a proven talent who could transform their offense and solidify their playoff aspirations.
The Steelers’ offensive struggles stem largely from their lack of a reliable secondary receiving threat. Thomas Jr. represents the ideal solution – a young, talented receiver with demonstrated NFL success who could immediately step in as the perfect complement to Metcalf. Despite his down 2025 season with 27 catches for 365 yards and one touchdown in seven games, Thomas Jr. proved his capabilities as a rookie in 2024 with an impressive 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The former LSU standout possesses the specific skill set Pittsburgh covets. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 205 pounds, Thomas Jr. provides the size and speed combination that fits perfectly with Aaron Rodgers’ vertical passing attack. His ability to stretch the field and win contested catches would open up the entire Steelers offense, creating more favorable matchups for other receivers and supporting the running game.
At just 23 years old, Thomas Jr. also represents a long-term solution rather than a rental. His rookie contract runs through 2027 with a team option for 2028, providing tremendous value at approximately $3.7 million annually. This cost-controlled talent would give the Steelers a young, ascending receiver for years to come while fitting comfortably within their salary cap structure.
Despite Jacksonville’s public stance, several factors make a Thomas Jr. trade increasingly logical. The Jaguars are in the midst of a regime change, with new head coach Liam Coen and general manager James Gladstone implementing their vision. Thomas Jr., drafted under the previous administration, may not align with Coen’s offensive philosophy, as evidenced by his diminished role and production this season.
Jacksonville’s need for defensive help is well-documented, and trading Thomas Jr. could provide the capital necessary to address those deficiencies. The Jaguars rank 16th in points allowed and are actively seeking defensive upgrades as the trade deadline approaches. Additionally, Jacksonville already has a potential replacement in Travis Hunter, who demonstrated his capability with 101 yards and a touchdown in Week 7.
The Jaguars also face a unique draft capital situation. They traded away their 2026 first-round pick to acquire Hunter, leaving them without premium draft ammunition to rebuild their roster. A Thomas Jr. trade could recoup valuable picks while allowing them to focus on their defensive needs.
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