The Pittsburgh Steelers have exceeded expectations this season, beginning with a solid 3-1 record. What’s most remarkable, however, is that they’ve managed to perform well despite not having the quarterback they initially signed to lead the team this year.

During the offseason, the Steelers made the strategic decision to move on from Kenny Pickett as their starting quarterback. In his place, they signed Russell Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, after his release from the Denver Broncos, and later traded for Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears.

Throughout the summer, the general assumption was that Wilson would start. Unfortunately, the veteran quarterback suffered a calf injury and has yet to play this season. Nevertheless, the Steelers have thrived with Fields at the helm, enjoying significant success.

The Pittsburgh Steelers Missed Out on Brandon Aiyuk

Steelers fans will recall that the team was heavily linked to San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk throughout the offseason. In February, the All-Pro receiver requested a new contract from San Francisco, leading to difficult negotiations and persistent trade rumors.

Aiyuk himself mentioned Pittsburgh as a possible destination if he couldn’t reach an agreement with the 49ers for an extension in 2024. During training camp, when Aiyuk officially requested a trade, the Steelers were ready with both an acceptable trade offer for the 49ers and a contract extension for Aiyuk.

However, at the last moment, Aiyuk chose to sign an extension with San Francisco, leaving the Steelers empty-handed in their pursuit.

The Pittsburgh Steelers Are Aggressively Pursuing Davante Adams in a Trade with the Las Vegas Raiders

After their failed attempt to land Aiyuk, it’s clear the Steelers remain in the market for a top-tier wide receiver. Earlier this week, three-time All-Pro receiver Davante Adams informed the Las Vegas Raiders that he would prefer to be traded rather than finish the season with them.

Several teams, including the New York Jets, who have Adams’ former Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, have expressed interest in acquiring him. However, Dianna Russini of *The Athletic* reported that the Steelers are making the strongest effort to land the six-time Pro Bowler.

According to Russini, “The Pittsburgh Steelers, who were previously interested in trading for Brandon Aiyuk before he extended his contract with San Francisco, are now in communication with the Raiders’ front office. Sources say Pittsburgh is putting forward an aggressive offer.”

Other reports indicate that the Raiders are seeking a second-round draft pick and additional compensation in exchange for Adams. Although the specifics of the Steelers’ offer remain undisclosed, it’s likely that the second-round pick is part of the deal.

When the Raiders initially acquired Adams from Green Bay, they gave up a first and second-round pick. While it’s improbable they will receive a first-round pick in this deal, they could still secure later-round picks or a combination of picks and players.