The Pittsburgh Steelers would alter the NFL landscape if they swung this massive trade.
For as much as the Pittsburgh Steelers need another wide receiver behind D.K. Metcalf, it seems pretty clear that their biggest need is defense.
It sounds strange given how synonymous the Steelers franchise has been with strong defensive units throughout its history, but this year, the D has been struggling mightily.
Pittsburgh is 30th in the NFL in yards allowed and 22nd in scoring defense this season, and it's the primary reason why the Steelers have lost two games in a row.
Could Pittsburgh make a big move by the trade deadline to fix things?
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox thinks so, labeling the Steelers one of the top potential destinations for New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. It wouldn't be cheap, though.
"A three-time Pro Bowler with 40 sacks on his NFL resume, Williams is the sort of player who would land the Jets premium draft capital that could be used to chase a quarterback in 2026," Knox wrote. "He won't turn 28 until December, and he's under contract through 2027. A first-round pick would probably be the starting point for any offer that would actually get New York's interest."
New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images.The problem, though, is that Williams does not have any guaranteed money coming to him after 2026, and he is only slated to earn $5 million in guaranteed cash next season.
That means whoever acquires the former No. 3 overall pick will probably have to adjust his contract, which is almost akin to signing him to an extension.
That could scare plenty of potential suitors away, especially if the Jets hold firm and ask for a first-round draft pick. The Steelers, though, are desperate.
Pittsburgh is clearly going all in on a Super Bowl this year, which is why it added 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers while also swinging a trade for the declining Jalen Ramsey during the offseason.
The Steelers have not won a playoff game in nine years, so times are getting a bit tenuous in Pittsburgh. Mike Tomlin isn't exactly on the hot seat, but things are certainly getting a bit warmer for the longest-tenured coach in professional football.
Williams would represent a game-changer for the Steelers. He is one of the best interior defensive linemen in the league and would comprise a gigantic upgrade over Keeanu Benton in the middle.