The NFL offseason is always a time of speculation, potential blockbuster trades, and roster reshuffling as teams look to address their weaknesses and build toward championship contention. One intriguing trade scenario that has gained traction in recent weeks is a proposed deal between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Detroit Lions, which would see an edge rusher heading to Detroit in exchange for a wide receiver joining Pittsburgh. This hypothetical trade makes sense for both franchises, addressing key needs while allowing each team to leverage their depth in areas where they are stronger. Let’s break down why this deal could be a win-win for both sides.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been known for their defensive prowess, particularly when it comes to generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. However, their offense has often been the weaker link, especially in the passing game. While the Steelers have a promising young quarterback in Kenny Pickett, the receiving corps beyond George Pickens lacks proven playmakers. Diontae Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers, leaving a void that needs to be filled if Pittsburgh wants to compete in a loaded AFC North. Adding another reliable pass-catcher would not only help Pickett’s development but also give offensive coordinator Arthur Smith more weapons to work with in his scheme.
On the other side, the Detroit Lions have built one of the most explosive offenses in the league, thanks in large part to their dynamic wide receiver room. Amon-Ra St. Brown has emerged as a bona fide star, and Jameson Williams is poised for a breakout season after showing flashes of his elite speed and playmaking ability. The Lions also have depth at the position with Josh Reynolds and Donovan Peoples-Jones, making it feasible for them to part with one of their receivers in exchange for a player who can bolster their defense. While Detroit’s offense carried them far in 2023, their defense—particularly the pass rush—was inconsistent. Aidan Hutchinson is a stud, but the Lions need another edge rusher to complement him and take their defense to the next level.
This is where the proposed trade comes into play. The Steelers have depth at edge rusher, with T.J. Watt leading the charge and Alex Highsmith as a more-than-capable counterpart. Behind them, Pittsburgh has young players like Nick Herbig and rookie draft picks who could step into a larger role if needed. Trading one of their edge rushers—perhaps Highsmith—could net them a valuable offensive piece without completely gutting their defensive strength. Highsmith, who has recorded double-digit sacks in two of the last three seasons, would be an immediate upgrade for Detroit’s pass rush, giving them a formidable duo alongside Hutchinson.
In return, the Lions could offer one of their surplus wide receivers to Pittsburgh. Jameson Williams would be the most intriguing name, given his upside, but the Lions may be reluctant to part with him after investing so much in his development. A more realistic option could be Donovan Peoples-Jones, who has shown flashes of potential but hasn’t consistently cracked Detroit’s loaded receiver rotation. Peoples-Jones would give Pittsburgh a big-bodied target with reliable hands, something they currently lack outside of Pickens. Alternatively, the Lions could offer Josh Reynolds, a veteran who has been a steady contributor and could provide immediate help for Pickett. Either way, the Steelers would be getting a much-needed weapon for their passing attack.
Financially, this trade could work for both teams. Alex Highsmith signed a four-year, $68 million extension last offseason, but the Lions have the cap space to absorb his contract, especially with quarterback Jared Goff’s deal already locked in. On the other side, Reynolds or Peoples-Jones would come at a much lower cost, allowing the Steelers to maintain flexibility for future moves. The draft pick compensation would also need to be negotiated—perhaps a mid-round pick going to Pittsburgh to balance the value—but the core of the trade would be player-for-player, addressing each team’s most pressing needs.
From a strategic standpoint, this trade aligns perfectly with both teams’ timelines. The Lions are in win-now mode after coming within one game of the Super Bowl last season. Adding a proven pass rusher like Highsmith would significantly improve their defense, making them even more dangerous in a competitive NFC. Meanwhile, the Steelers are still building around Pickett and need to ensure he has the tools to succeed. Giving him another reliable receiver would help accelerate his growth and keep Pittsburgh in the playoff conversation in a tough division.
Of course, any trade of this magnitude comes with risks. The Steelers would be weakening their edge rotation, which is crucial in a division featuring quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Deshaun Watson. Losing Highsmith would put more pressure on Watt and the young backups to maintain Pittsburgh’s defensive standard. For the Lions, trading away a receiver—even one buried on the depth chart—could backfire if injuries strike their pass-catching group. Both teams would need to weigh the short-term gains against the long-term implications before pulling the trigger.
That said, the potential rewards outweigh the risks. The Lions’ defense was their Achilles’ heel last season, and adding a player of Highsmith’s caliber could transform their pass rush from solid to elite. Pairing him with Hutchinson would give offensive coordinators nightmares and allow Detroit to compete with the likes of the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC. For the Steelers, acquiring a proven receiver would finally give Pickett the supporting cast he needs to take the next step. Too often last season, Pittsburgh’s offense sputtered due to a lack of playmakers outside of Pickens and running back Jaylen Warren. Adding a veteran like Reynolds or a high-upside player like Peoples-Jones would provide much-needed balance.
In the grand scheme of things, this trade is about two teams recognizing their strengths and weaknesses and making a bold move to address them. The Lions have an embarrassment of riches at wide receiver but need help on defense. The Steelers have a deep edge-rushing group but lack firepower on offense. A straight-up swap makes too much sense to ignore. While NFL trades are rare compared to other sports, this is the kind of deal that could happen if both general managers—Brad Holmes in Detroit and Omar Khan in Pittsburgh—are aggressive in pursuing upgrades.
As the offseason progresses, keep an eye on these two teams. If the Lions decide they need another edge rusher to push them over the top, or if the Steelers grow impatient with their receiver room, this trade could gain serious traction. It’s the perfect example of a “deal of needs,” where both sides walk away happier and better equipped to compete. In a league where championship windows can close quickly, proactive moves like this can make all the difference. Steelers and Lions fans should be hoping their front offices are at least exploring the possibility—because this trade could be the missing piece for both franchises.
