The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a pivotal moment this offseason. The team reached the playoffs again in 2024, but, as has often been the case recently, their playoff journey was brief. Currently, the team heads into the offseason with an average draft position and an average level of cap space.
Moreover, both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are approaching free agency, so the team must determine the quarterback situation. One can confidently assert that the Steelers possess a solid foundation, but how can the team elevate its potential?
Jaren Kawada from Clutch Points proposes that the Steelers acquire Deebo Samuel, the standout wide receiver of the San Francisco 49ers. Samuel has previously been at the heart of trade speculation, and 2025 marks the last year of his contract.
Concerning Samuel’s suitability in Pittsburgh, Kawada provided this:
Although the 49ers may not intend to trade him, Samuel might successfully push for an exit. Previously recognized as the driving force behind the San Francisco offense, he may head into 2025 as the fourth or fifth choice in the passing game. Jauan Jennings’ rise in his fourth year and the ongoing progress of rookie Ricky Pearsall might quickly elevate him in the hierarchy. Samuel is only three years past asking for a trade prior to agreeing to an expensive extension.
Despite the worries, Samuel remains one of the league’s most versatile and energetic receivers when in good health. The Steelers urgently require assistance at wide receiver. No one can predict what will occur with George Pickens during the 2025 NFL offseason, but even if he stays in Pittsburgh for another season, he has never had consistent support to genuinely enhance the passing game.
As he enters 2025, Samuel will be in the final year of his existing contract, which carries a $15 million cap hit. The cost will be steep, but it could potentially transform the Steelers’ offense beyond its present bland state.
In 2024, Samuel made 51 receptions for 670 yards and scored three touchdowns. Samuel had a tough year, facing issues with drops and general inconsistency in his performance.
However, that stat line would still surpass any wide receiver on the Steelers’ roster, except for George Pickens, making Samuel an improvement for Pittsburgh.
Samuel earned Pro Bowl honors and was named a first-team All-Pro in 2021. The adaptable athlete capable of positioning himself anywhere on the field adds value to the run game too, with the seasoned player recording 1,143 rushing yards and 51 rushing touchdowns throughout his career.
Samuel will have a cap hit of nearly $16 million in 2025. The wide receiver will become a free agent following the 2025 season, so the request price likely won’t be as elevated as it was last offseason.
Acquiring Samuel would provide the Steelers with an additional versatile choice for their offense moving ahead, significantly benefiting whoever is at quarterback.