Steelers’ Efforts to Enhance Receiving Corps

Continued Scramble for Wide Receivers in the NFL

In the wake of an array of wide receiver trades in the NFL recently, there was one more in the pipeline. The Pittsburgh Steelers were in discussion to finalize a deal for Christian Kirk. According to insider sources, the Jaguars wide receiver was set to land in Pittsburgh until a collarbone injury last Sunday stalled the move. The Steelers’ aspiration to bolster their receiving corps hit a snag, but this setback is only temporary according to sources within the league.

Tracking NFL Trades Before the Deadline

The Steelers have been proactive, reaching out to check on the availability of wide receivers ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET trade deadline. This includes Mike Williams from the Jets and Adam Thielen from the Panthers, as per league insiders. Despite their continuous efforts to boost their squad before the deadline, the Steelers are not the only team seeking to strengthen ahead of the season’s second half.

Team Updates and Potential Deals

• The Detroit Lions have been making inquiries about pass rushers, and have reportedly been in talks with the Browns about former Pro Bowl defensive end Za’Darius Smith, who has previously played in the NFC North for both the Packers and Vikings.

• The Atlanta Falcons have shown enthusiasm in exploring pass rush options and are expected to consider a deal for Giants edge rusher Azeez Ojulari.

• The Cardinals, currently tied for first place in the NFC West, are also looking into acquiring pass rushers like Ojulari.

• Calais Campbell is another pass rusher who might be up for grabs, with the Dolphins receiving inquiries about him. If the Dolphins fail to win against Buffalo this Sunday, they might be more open to dealing Campbell to a contender.

• The New Orleans Saints have been receiving calls about Marshon Lattimore, but his health status could be a potential roadblock to a deal. Despite his absence from Sunday’s game against the Panthers, teams, including the reigning champions Chiefs, have expressed interest.

• The Chiefs, who have already traded for DeAndre Hopkins and Joshua Uche, may be looking to make another move, with Lattimore or another player in their sights. As they prepare to host the Buccaneers on “Monday Night Football,” the Chiefs are ready to take action.

The NFL Trade Deadline: A Flurry of Activity Expected

In the forthcoming hours before the trade deadline, the NFL has seen a surge of activity. One of these key players is the Jacksonville Jaguars. Already having traded defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris to the Seahawks and offensive tackle Cam Robinson to the Vikings, the Jaguars are showing no signs of slowing down.

Jacksonville Jaguars: The Trading Continues

The Jaguars are currently deliberating a potential trade for Kirk. Continually taking calls and assessing offers, the team remains active in the trading scene. Among the players attracting attention, five-time Pro-Bowl guard Brandon Scherff is a standout.

Carolina Panthers’ Significant Trade

The week’s major trade development involved the Carolina Panthers parting with wide receiver Diontae Johnson, sending him over to the Ravens. Johnson is set to make his first appearance for Baltimore in Sunday’s match against the Broncos. Interestingly, Johnson is already familiar with his new team, particularly with fellow Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor.

Diontae Johnson and Nelson Agholor: A Reunion in Baltimore

Johnson and Agholor, both originating from Tampa, Florida, have a long-standing friendship. Despite a three-year age difference, with Agholor at 31 and Johnson at 28, the duo formed a bond through their involvement in youth sports and high school rivalry. Their relationship has remained strong, even training together during the offseason. In fact, after Johnson’s recent trade to Baltimore, he temporarily resided at Agholor’s residence.

Looking Towards the Deadline

As the deadline approaches, teams such as the Ravens, Chiefs, Falcons, Cardinals, and others are scouting for potential additions to their rosters. The outcomes of Sunday’s games could also play a vital role in determining the buyers and sellers of the deadline. However, one thing is certain: there will be a last burst of activity before the deadline hits.