Steelers fans experienced a whirlwind of emotions on Monday, with reports suggesting that the team was on the verge of acquiring star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, only to later learn that the deal might not happen. Late Monday, it was reported that the Steelers were out of the running for Aiyuk, with the Browns and Patriots now leading the race.
Whether the report is accurate or whether the Steelers should trade for Aiyuk is a separate discussion. What stands out is how Omar Khan allowed the wide receiver situation to deteriorate to the point where acquiring Aiyuk seems like the only solution. On March 12, the Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers for cornerback Donte Jackson. While Johnson was inconsistent, he complemented George Pickens well. This trade weakened the wide receiver room, leaving fans puzzled.
Omar Khan failed to make a significant move to bolster the Steelers roster after trading Diontae Johnson
Initially, I trusted Khan to address this issue, but as months passed without a major acquisition, my confidence waned. Despite drafting Roman Wilson in the third round, expecting a rookie to become an immediate star is unrealistic. The team signed several backup receivers like Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins, and Scotty Miller, none of whom are likely starters.
It seems the Steelers are heading into the 2024 season with these players taking significant snaps. This situation raises questions about Khan’s strategy after trading Johnson. It’s hard to believe he intended to rely on these lesser-known receivers. With the defense aging and other key positions ready to contribute, the Steelers are in a win-now mode but have a glaring weakness at wide receiver. While Khan’s track record as GM is almost flawless, this Aiyuk saga highlights the vulnerability of the receiver room and suggests that trading Johnson might have been a rare mistake by the “Khan artist.”