As the NFL draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ wide receiver situation continues to intrigue fans. For over a month, there’s been anticipation for the team to enhance this position, sparking various rumors on how they might do so. Consequently, they’ve been associated with numerous potential additions to bolster their receiving corps.
Adding to the speculation, another name has emerged. Mark Kaboly, from The Athletic, mentioned on the April 22 episode of 93.7 The Fan’s “The Fan Morning Show” that Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks could be a trade target for the Steelers.
“I’m eyeing someone like Brandin Cooks, though I’m not sure if he’s available. He’d be a great fit here. With his contract ending soon in Dallas and their cost-cutting measures, he could be on the market. If we can make a move for him, it’d be a smart move. There must be a plan in motion to bring in a receiver. The team management understands they can’t solely rely on Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins. They’re aware of the limitations and the uncertainties of the draft.”
Why Cooks Would Fit
Kaboly highlighted that the Steelers are currently lacking strong options at WR2.
Last season, Jefferson managed 20 receptions for 209 yards, while in 2022, he recorded 24 catches for 369 yards.
Watkins didn’t fare much better, posting 15 receptions for 142 yards in 2023 and 33 catches for 354 yards in 2022.
Calvin Austin, although on the roster, missed his entire rookie season in 2022 and only managed 17 receptions for 180 yards last season.
While Cooks may not be a standout star at this stage of his career, he could certainly provide dependable production for the Steelers.
From 2015 to 2021, Cooks surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in six out of seven seasons, showcasing consistent productivity. Although his recent seasons haven’t matched that level, he remains a reliable option.
In 2022, Cooks recorded 57 receptions for 699 yards in 13 games before being traded to the Cowboys. During his debut season with Dallas, he contributed 54 catches for 657 yards and 8 touchdowns as the secondary option.
If he replicated this performance with the Steelers, he could seamlessly fill the void left by Diontae Johnson.
Moreover, acquiring Cooks shouldn’t require the Steelers to sacrifice much in terms of draft picks. The Cowboys acquired him for a mere fifth and sixth-round pick, indicating they might not demand more in return.
With only one year left on his contract, Cooks could serve as a short-term solution. However, if the Cowboys are indeed looking to trade him, it presents a favorable opportunity for the Steelers given their current needs.
Steelers’ Other Trade Options
Cooks isn’t the sole wide receiver option under discussion for the Steelers recently.
Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers receiver, has emerged as a star, tallying over 1,300 yards in 2023. With just one year left on his contract and a looming hefty payday, he’s garnered considerable attention in trade talks. However, acquiring Aiyuk would likely come at a high cost for the Steelers, potentially involving their first-round pick and more, plus the need for a contract extension. Despite the potential hurdles, his addition would be significant if the Steelers pursued him.
Another name gaining traction is Courtland Sutton. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler identified the Steelers as a team to watch for Sutton, especially after he opted out of the Broncos’ voluntary workouts. Sutton’s familiarity with new Steelers QB Russell Wilson could smooth his transition to Pittsburgh. However, any move for Sutton would need to be economically viable for the Steelers. Despite Sutton’s NFL experience, his career numbers fall short of Johnson’s, raising questions about the wisdom of parting with substantial draft capital for him following Johnson’s departure.
The Steelers’ strategy at the wide receiver position will undoubtedly make for compelling viewing in the coming days.
