Currently holding a 3-3 record, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the more inconsistent teams in the NFL. They're not the worst team and they're certainly not the best. However, now might be a great time to acquire a backup quarterback with the potential to take over Ben Roethlisberger's starting role in the future.
Another area of concern is the offensive line. The Steelers haven't done a great job in either pass protection or run blocking, creating problems for them as a whole. If Big Ben was more mobile, it likely wouldn't be an issue. But he doesn't quite move as he used to, as age has become a factor for the 39-year-old QB.
The NFL trade deadline is on November 2 and anything can happen. Keep an eye on the Steelers, as a potential deal could come through before the end of Week 8. In fact, here are two trades that they could make before the trade deadline.
*Watch NFL games LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*
Steelers Trades
For an offensive lineman
Really, any offensive lineman will do. The Steelers can't protect Big Ben to save their lives and the running lanes are nil. Even so, Najee Harris has been able to create running room himself, but he needs help if Pittsburgh hopes to make a playoff push. The offense has solid weapons at Roethlisberger's disposal, so if he has better protection, the offense should become more fluid.
We'll see what happens though, as offensive linemen are incredibly valuable to a football team. It's hard to imagine the Steelers acquiring an elite-level lineman, but that's essentially what they need to improve on. The front office has to be making phone calls to see who is available via trade.
For Gardner Minshew
There are already rumblings around the NFL that Minshew may receive starting reps for the Philadelphia Eagles soon. If that's the case, Minshew is likely off the table as a potential Steelers trade option. However, the team should highly consider looking into acquiring him, more so for the future than this season.
It's no secret that Roethlisberger is nearing retirement. What's odd though is that the front office hasn't done much to find his replacement. It was speculated that the Steelers might draft a quarterback in the 2021 NFL Draft. Instead, they ignored the position and put the franchise in a rough spot moving forward.
Bringing in Minshew would be a smart move. He's young, motivated, and has flashed potential during his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Additionally, he would immediately be competing for the starting role next offseason. The Steelers could still draft a rookie if they want, but they'd be hedging their bets for Roethlisberger's successor.
Either of these trades would be a great move for the franchise. Acquiring a better offensive lineman would help the Steelers become more of a win-now team. Meanwhile, trading for Minshew provides increased longevity for Pittsburgh's offense. Both options make sense for the Steelers. However, the question remains, will the front office pull the trigger before the 2021 NFL trade deadline?
Follow Us
Subscribe