As the NFL trade deadline looms, thePittsburgh Steelers find themselves in the midst of quarterback uncertainty, a factor that could have wide-ranging consequences for their trade prospects. The team's offensive struggles, particularly at the quarterback position, have become a focal point of frustration, not just for their own players but also for potential trade targets like Davante Adams.
Adams, the star wide receiver for the Las Vegas Raiders, has expressed discontent with the current situation in Las Vegas. With the Raiders struggling to find consistency at quarterback, the All-Pro receiver is reportedly eyeing a potential trade. As quarterback play remains critical to his future, Adams appears to be looking for more stability, and that's where teams like the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints come into play.
According to reports, Adams has his sights set on teams led by familiar quarterbacks-Aaron Rodgers with the Jets and Derek Carr with the Saints. Both quarterbacks have history with Adams, as he played with Rodgers in Green Bay and Carr in Las Vegas. With these preferences clearly stated, the question remains: why would Adams consider the Steelers, a team currently embroiled in their own quarterback dilemma?
The Steelers have shown interest in acquiring Adams, and rumors of a potential trade have circulated. ESPN's Dan Graziano even floated the idea of a swap involving Steelers wide receiver George Pickens for Adams. While Pickens is a promising young talent, the bigger issue for Pittsburgh lies under center. As of Week 6, the Steelers have cycled through three quarterbacks, none of whom have solidified their place as a long-term solution.
The quarterback carousel in Pittsburgh is eerily similar to the one Adams is currently trying to escape in Las Vegas. Justin Fields has been the starter for most of the season but has yet to fully establish himself as a reliable option. Meanwhile, Russell Wilson has been battling injuries, leaving the Steelers' offense in limbo. Fields' stats-92-of-136 ing for 961 yards and just five touchdowns in five games-are unlikely to inspire confidence in a star receiver looking to compete at the highest level.
Why stability matters: Adams eyes proven quarterbacks over Steelers' uncertainty
For Adams, a move to Pittsburgh could feel like trading one uncertain quarterback situation for another. The allure of reuniting with Carr in New Orleans or Rodgers in New York seems far more appealing, especially considering both quarterbacks are proven commodities who have worked with Adams before. This familiarity is something Adams has reportedly prioritized as he evaluates potential landing spots.
The Raiders, meanwhile, are facing their own quarterback issues, with no clear solution in sight. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler noted that the instability at quarterback has been a major factor in Adams' decision to explore trade options. After more than two seasons in Las Vegas, Adams may be feeling the pressure to make a move before the prime of his career es him by.
In contrast, the Steelers' quarterback situation isn't much better. With contracts for all three of their current quarterbacks expiring before next season, the future is anything but certain. Even if Pittsburgh were to pull off a trade for Adams, the lack of a long-term answer at quarterback could turn this opportunity into yet another frustrating situation for the wide receiver.
At the end of the day, Adams' trade request seems to be about one thing: stability. And right now, the Steelers don't offer that, at least not at quarterback. As Pittsburgh fans speculate about the possibility of Adams donning black and gold, the reality is that the Steelers likely aren't at the top of his wish list. Until they can provide a clear path forward at quarterback, the Steelers may find it difficult to land top-tier talent like Adams.
For now, the Saints and Jets remain the frontrunners, and with good reason. They can offer what Pittsburgh currently cannot-a proven quarterback and a stable environment for one of the NFL's best receivers.