As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crossroads, with numerous trade rumors swirling around their potential strategies. Despite having the 21st overall pick, the teams needs are numerous, and the latest chatter suggests they might be looking to shake things up with some bold moves. Could the Steelers trade down? Or is there a highprofile deal in the works to secure a veteran player? Heres a breakdown of the key trade rumors surrounding the team today.
Trade Rumor 1: Steelers Open to Moving Down in the First Round
The most prominent trade rumor currently surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers involves their 21st overall pick. Several reports indicate that the team is seriously considering trading back in the first round. General Manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin have been busy evaluating a wide range of players, with needs at positions like defensive tackle, wide receiver, and cornerback. However, with several teams in the draft looking to move up, the Steelers could gain significant compensation by trading down.
Why would the Steelers want to move back? For one, theres the opportunity to gather more draft picks, especially as theyve already given up their secondround pick in exchange for wide receiver DK Metcalf last season. The Steelers could be looking to stockpile assets to strengthen their team in other areas. Teams like the Miami Dolphins, who have a top10 pick, might be interested in jumping up to 21 to grab a coveted player, and the Steelers could benefit from this scenario.
Trade Rumor 2: Interest in Kaleb Johnson, But How Do They Get Him?
Another major storyline in the Steelers draft plans is their reported interest in Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson. Johnson is expected to go in the second round, but with Pittsburgh lacking a secondround pick, this has led to speculation that the team could trade back to land him. Johnson had a standout season in 2024, leading the Big Ten in rushing yards and touchdowns. Given the uncertainty surrounding their running back room, especially with Najee Harriss contract situation, the Steelers could be eyeing Johnson as a potential longterm starter.
But how could Pittsburgh make this happen? If the Steelers trade down from the 21st pick into the second round, they could acquire more picks and still land Johnson, who would be an ideal fit. This would allow them to address other positions, such as defensive tackle, while still adding a highupside running back to the mix. It would be a smart move for a team looking to build depth across the roster while setting themselves up for longterm success.
Trade Rumor 3: The Aaron Rodgers Question
While not directly related to the draft, another trade rumor hovering over the Steelers is the potential acquisition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers have been linked to Rodgers in recent months, and while there have been no clear signals that a trade will happen, many believe the team is still considering this highprofile move. However, reports suggest that the situation may come to a head soon. With Rodgers future uncertain after his time with the New York Jets, Pittsburgh could offer him a new home, but the trade might not happen until after the draft.
If the Steelers were to bring in Rodgers, it would be a significant shakeup for their offense. However, the team must weigh the costboth in terms of assets and the longterm implications of adding a highmaintenance player like Rodgers. For now, it seems like the Steelers will wait to see how things play out postdraft, but it remains an intriguing possibility.
Trade Rumor 4: Possible Moves for More Draft Picks
Beyond the first round, Pittsburgh is looking to maximize their draft value. They have already given up several key assets in the last few seasons, but with compensatory picks coming in 2026 from freeagent departures, including offensive linemen and quarterbacks, the Steelers could be in a position to make additional moves. Whether its a trade for a future pick or leveraging a highvalue player to gain more capital, the Steelers front office seems poised to make moves that will benefit their roster in both the short and long term.
Conclusion: The Steelers Are in Play
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the Pittsburgh Steelers are showing theyre not afraid to make bold moves. Whether they trade back in the first round, acquire a player like Kaleb Johnson, or even make a surprise deal for Aaron Rodgers, the team is clearly exploring all avenues. Their mix of young talent and veteran acquisitions will be critical in shaping their future, and these trade rumors only add to the intrigue of what might be a pivotal offseason for the franchise.
The Steelers are preparing for a draft that could reshape their roster, so fans should expect a flurry of activity in the coming days. The teams focus on building a competitive and balanced squad means no stone will be left unturned as they look to build on their success in the coming years. Keep an eye on the Pittsburgh Steelersthey might just make the kind of move that could elevate them back to the top of the NFL.