The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly ‘open’ to moving one of their top receivers before the 2024 season. In Arthur Smith’s first season as the Steelers’ offensive coordinator, the team must make a few crucial decisions regarding its offensive squad.
The Steelers must pick where they want to go with quarterback. Mason Rudolph is likely to return to compete with Kenny Pickett for the starting position. However, their wide receiving corps may be poorer than last season, when Pickett threw only six touchdown passes.
Is Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Diontae Johnson available for trade? The quick answer is yes, if the price is reasonable.
The 2019 third-round selection is in the final year of a two-year deal signed in November 2022, and he is expected to earn more than $11 million this season, including salary and bonuses. In 14 games last season, Johnson caught 51 catches for 717 yards and five touchdowns. In 2021, he had a career-high 107 catches for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns.
While it is not accurate to state Johnson is on the trading block, numerous sources tell me the Steelers are willing to trade the receiver provided they receive reasonable money.
I overheard similar conversations during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Johnson is unlikely to remain with the Steelers indefinitely. Seeking value in exchange for Johnson via trade may be the greatest option for the organization to add draft capital to an offensive roster in need of it.
Losing an All-Pro wide receiver will not help Pickett or Rudolph in the 2024 season. They would rely largely on third-year receiver George Pickens.
