The Pittsburgh Steelers are considering a trade for wide receiver Brandin Cooks to strengthen their offensive lineup.
The NFL cutdown deadline has passed, leaving the Steelers with questions at wide receiver beyond DK Metcalf. With no established No. 2 wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers, the team is eyeing a deal with the New Orleans Saints for Cooks in exchange for a draft pick.
At 31, Cooks is a six-time 1,000-yard wide receiver, although his numbers have dipped in recent seasons, failing to surpass 700 yards in the past three years. In 2024, Cooks recorded 259 yards and three touchdowns in 10 games, showing potential for a resurgence if given the opportunity.
The potential addition of Cooks could provide Rodgers with a reliable target in the passing game, complementing the explosive plays of Metcalf and enhancing the Steelers’ offensive arsenal. With Calvin Austin III showing promise as a big-play receiver, Cooks could offer a consistent option for moving the chains, crucial in sustaining drives.
Should the trade go through, Cooks would step into the role of the Steelers’ second-best wideout, bringing experience and a history of production to the team’s receiving corps. His ability to stretch the field and make tough catches could be a valuable asset for Pittsburgh’s offensive schemes, providing Rodgers with another weapon to exploit opposing defenses.
While Cooks’ recent numbers may not reflect his peak performance, a change of scenery and the opportunity to work alongside Rodgers could reignite his productivity and impact on the field. The Steelers, in need of a reliable option beyond Metcalf, could benefit from Cooks’ veteran presence and skillset, potentially elevating their passing game to new heights.
As the Steelers continue to assess their options in the trade market, acquiring Cooks could be a strategic move to bolster their offensive capabilities and address the gaps in their wide receiver depth chart. With the potential for Cooks to rejuvenate his career in Pittsburgh, this trade scenario presents an intriguing opportunity for both the player and the team.