The Pittsburgh Steelers lack many offensive playmakers. DK Metcalf is a proven weapon at receiver, but the Steelers are in need of another pass-catcher. And while many assume it will be in the form of a receiver, the Steelers have reportedly been in discussions with the Miami Dolphins about acquiring Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith. Now, Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report suggests that the Steelers make a massive trade for Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, but also land Kirk Cousins in the trade as well by sending second and fifth-round picks in 2026 and a fourth-round pick in 2027.

“Pitts has yet to replicate his rookie success and isn’t under contract beyond this season,” Knox writes. “Therefore, the Falcons are unlikely to receive a second-round offer for the tight end alone. In this hypothetical scenario, though, Atlanta offloads Cousins, along with Pitts, to get a second-rounder and a bit more from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Falcons would also save $27.5 million in cap space by moving Cousins after June 1. The Steelers are widely expected to add Aaron Rodgers at some point this offseason, which would erase any potential interest in Cousins. Rodgers hasn’t signed a contract yet, though, which leaves Mason Rudolph as QB1 in Pittsburgh. If Rodgers decides to retire or try playing elsewhere in 2025, Cousins could be the Steelers’ next best option.”

For what the Steelers’ plan appears to be at quarterback – gearing up for selecting a signal-caller in 2026 – having all the draft capital they can muster for potential trade-up (s) feels more important than sending a high-round draft pick for an older quarterback who is coming off a down year. While Cousins could bounce back in 2025, it’s a lot to give up – even with Pitts also joining the fray.