Trades continue to fly left and right as the November 4 NFL deadline rapidly approaches — offering the Pittsburgh Steelers a few important decisions to make regarding the future of their roster.
In order to improve their odds of a Super Bowl chase this season, these three Steelers are the most likely to be traded away ahead of the NFL deadline.
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QB Mason Rudolph
Nov 10, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) passes against the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
While many Steelers fans would scoff at sending Rudolph packing after his heroic return this offseason, the inevitable return of Skylar Thompson and Will Howard leaves Pittsburgh with a possible decision to make — meeting the backup QB demands of the NFL trade market and getting as much value out of Rudolph as possible.
Best possible trade suitor: Colts
OLB Alex Highsmith
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) rushes against Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata (68) at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Nick Herbig’s early-season breakout has opened the door for Pittsburgh to truly go all in on a Super Bowl run. Highsmith, while immensely talented and solid against the run, may play second fiddle to Herbig for the remainder of the season — while other top teams are searching for an accomplished edge rusher with starting experience. Trading away Highsmith could allow the Steelers to acquire a top offensive lineman or wide receiver, two areas needed for a seventh Lombardi chase in 2025.
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Best possible trade suitors: 49ers, Eagles
TE Pat Freiermuth
Nov 26, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) celebrates after the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Another case of a talented Steeler being phased out of playing time, Freiermuth’s contract makes him arguably the most likely to be dealt ahead of the NFL trade deadline. The ninth-highest-paid tight end in the league but clearly third-best on Pittsburgh’s roster, would it really be the worst idea in the world for the Steelers to cut their losses on the Freiermuth experiment?
Best possible trade suitor: Rams
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers’ trade candidates ahead of the NFL deadline