Steelers Trade Targets: Six Players Worth A Pick

Steelers Expected to Make Moves at the Deadline

Pittsburgh is gearing up for at least one transaction before the NFL’s trade window closes. The roster features several high‑profile players with large contracts that could be lightened if a teammate steps up. General sentiment around the organization is that depth exists behind many of these names, making them potential trade candidates. However, they are not seen as the most valuable assets on the squad.

Bill Barnwell’s Nationwide Trade‑Value Review

The ESPN analyst combed through all 32 rosters to rank players by the amount of draft capital they could fetch in a deal. Barnwell’s framework values talent in terms of first‑round picks, highlighting which players could become immediate assets for a team in need. The Steelers appear in this study with a handful of players flagged for their potential market value. This research gives fans a concrete look at where Pittsburgh could shake up its lineup.

Steelmers on the Trade Radar – Six Players Worth a First‑Round Pick

• Joey Porter Jr. – Cornerback, identified as a possible trade piece if a contract extension stalls.
• Zach Frazier – Center, listed as a player who could command a first‑round selection.
• Troy Fautanu – Offensive tackle, also flagged for his trade potential.
• Derrick Harmon – Defensive tackle, deemed valuable enough for a first‑rounder.
• Nick Herbig – Edge defender, recognized as a steal in a trade scenario.
• Keeanu Benton – Defensive tackle, despite past issues, still appears on the list.

Why Only One Player Might Actually Move

Among the six names, Porter Jr. stands out as the lone candidate who could realistically be dealt. If the team and the player cannot agree on a long‑term contract, a trade becomes more likely. By contrast, Benton’s recent performance has been inconsistent, and internal competition from rookie Yahya Black could further limit his role. Consequently, a first‑round asset seems out of reach for many evaluators.

The remaining four—Frazier, Fautanu, Harmon, and Herbig—are considered foundational pieces. Their contributions are viewed as essential to the club’s long‑term plans, making a single draft pick an insufficient return for a move.

T.J. Watt and D.K. Metcalf Not on the List

Barnwell omitted T.J. Watt and D.K. Metcalf from his valuation, a decision the article supports for Metcalf. Watt’s contract, however, is sizable enough that a team desperate for pass rush could trade a first‑round pick for his services if Pittsburgh is willing to swallow part of the salary. This scenario adds another layer of intrigue to the Steelers’ offseason maneuvering.

What the List Means for Pittsburgh’s Future

The analysis suggests that the Steelers will likely look to move Porter Jr. before February’s deadline, using him to upgrade depth or add draft capital. The other five players are expected to stay, reinforcing the team’s defensive and offensive line cores. At the same time, the organization must keep an eye on Watt’s potential market, as a high‑impact pass rusher could be a centerpiece in a larger swap. Fans can anticipate a focused approach, balancing immediate needs with long‑term roster construction as the season progresses.