The New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are considered two teams to watch for a star player who just hit the trade block by one notable NFL insider.
The Patriots and Steelers enter the offseason in very different positions. Pittsburgh ended the season with a better-than-expected 10-7 record. While New England was at the bottom of the AFC East standings in year one of their rebuild. Yet, both organizations have a similar need this offseason.
Also Read: NFL free agents 2025 – Free agents by team, including the New England Patriots
The Patriots and Steelers are expected to be looking at making some upgrades in their wide receiver room in the months ahead. And they could do that via NFL free agency or in April’s draft. However, a new report links the pair of East Coast clubs to a potential pursuit for a Pro Bowl-level pass catcher that is now available via trade.
- Deebo Samuel stats (2024): 15 games, 81 catches, 670 yards, 13.1 yards per carry
New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers teams to watch in Deebo Samuel trade chase?
Over the weekend, it was revealed that during his exit interview, San Francisco wide receiver Deebo Samuel asked to be traded this offseason. The one-time Pro Bowler has been linked to trade chatter for the last couple of years. And he is sure to have a lot of interest around the league. Bleacher Report NFL insider James Palmer believes both the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers make sense as landing spots for the 29-year-old.
In the case of the Steelers, Palmer believes there are two reasons they will pursue Samuel. First, to get another high-level option in the passing game to go along with George Pickens. However, he also claimed the team is unsure if they will keep Pickens after next season. A trade would give them an easy WR1 replacement option if they move on from the young star.
- Deebo Samuel contract: Three years, $75.3 million
When it comes to the Pats, Palmer claims it simply boils down to the team badly needing a meaningful addition to the WR room. Quarterback Drake Maye looks like he can be a star in the league. He needs more weapons for his development. They have also been linked to a pursuit of Tee Higgins in free agency as well.
Both clubs were among the teams that pursued a trade for Samuel’s teammate Brandon Aiyuk last summer.
Also Read: NFL insider predicts Pittsburgh Steelers QB decision, potential issue with veteran