Steelers Eye Brandon Aiyuk…Again?

Last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers had their eyes set on San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. After trading away Diontae Johnson, the Steelers were left with a significant hole at receiver — one they never managed to fill. It seemed like Pittsburgh put all its hopes into landing Aiyuk, but things didn’t go as planned.

Fast forward a year, and the Steelers are back in the same spot: searching for a reliable receiver to line up opposite George Pickens. Once again, Brandon Aiyuk’s name is making the rounds. There are rumors that the 49ers might be open to trading Aiyuk, and naturally, the Steelers have reportedly shown interest.

The catch? Aiyuk is coming off a torn ACL from the 2024 season. According to Dr. Deepak Chona, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, Aiyuk’s recovery timeline is around 11 months, meaning he might not be back to full strength until September or October. While he’s expected to make a complete recovery, it’s possible he might not be his usual self right out of the gate.

Understandably, some Steelers fans are frustrated. After last year’s disappointment, the idea of going after Aiyuk again doesn’t sit well with everyone. However, from where I stand, it makes sense for the Steelers to explore every option. If Aiyuk does return to form, he could bring a lot to an offense that desperately needs another playmaker.

The Steelers need someone who can take the pressure off Pickens. Also, with Pickens’ future in Pittsburgh uncertain, adding a proven receiver like Aiyuk could help prevent a situation where they’re forced to keep Pickens simply due to a lack of options. Personally, I’m in the camp of wanting Pickens to be a Steeler long-term, but there is still some maturity and consistency that need to be shown from the young star in the making.

While there are other receivers out there who could help, not many available have Aiyuk’s track record and talent. I’m not saying the Steelers have to trade for him, but I do like that they’re at least asking about him. The Steelers need to turn over every stone possible to make this roster as strong as it can be. With the likelihood of not having a top-tier quarterback who can elevate the team around him, the team as a whole may need to elevate the quarterback.

As for Aiyuk, it all comes down to his health and what the 49ers want in return. If the price is right, taking another swing at Aiyuk might just be the move that gives the Steelers’ offense the additional piece it needs to move closer to its goals.

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