Steelers’ Path To Star Receiver Tandem May Run Through D.C.

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have already reshaped their wide receiver room this offseason, but the biggest splash could still be to come.

Washington Commanders wideout Terry McLaurin has surfaced as a potential trade target for Pittsburgh, with his contract situation drawing attention around the league. According to Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports, McLaurin has stepped away from voluntary workouts as he angles for a new deal. His attendance at mandatory minicamp is now in doubt.

The Steelers have not yet found a clear second option alongside star receiver DK Metcalf, who was acquired from the Seattle Seahawks in March. George Pickens was dealt to the Dallas Cowboys soon after, and while the team hosted Gabe Davis for a free agent visit and has been loosely linked to Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, nothing has elevated beyond the rumor phase.

That leaves an opening in the Steelers’ pass-catching corps — and McLaurin would be a game-changing fit. If Pittsburgh were to land him, the short-term impact with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers could be significant. But the long-term value may be even greater. A 2026 roster featuring a rookie quarterback, Metcalf and McLaurin on the outside, a solid offensive line, and a capable backfield would set up the future in a big way.

The financial side is manageable, and extending McLaurin wouldn’t cripple the team’s flexibility.

“Many may worry about the money side of things in terms of giving another receiver a big extension,” writes Jarret Bailey from Behind the Steel Curtain, “But the Steelers have a projected $92.6 million in cap space in 2026, per OverTheCap — not having a quarterback on a huge deal frees up a lot of money.”

If a talented pass catcher the likes of McLaurin becomes available, the Steelers have every reason to listen.

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