Raiders Floated Trade Proposal – WR Jakobi Meyers for Steelers Star
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The Las Vegas Raiders have reportedly made waves across the NFL with a bold trade proposal aimed at reshaping their roster before the season kicks off. According to league insiders, the Raiders are exploring the possibility of moving wide receiver Jakobi Meyers in hopes of acquiring a defensive cornerstone from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Meyers, who emerged as one of the Raiders’ most consistent targets last season, has been reliable with his precise route running, physicality at the catch point, and ability to move the chains. With Davante Adams headlining the receiving corps, Las Vegas appears open to moving Meyers if it means securing a player who can transform their defense.
For the Steelers, however, the idea of losing one of their most important pieces raises immediate concerns. Pittsburgh has built its reputation on a ferocious pass rush and defensive toughness, and any trade involving a premier defender could alter the very identity of the unit.
At the center of the discussions is linebacker Alex Highsmith, the 26-year-old edge rusher who has quietly developed into one of the NFL’s most underrated defensive stars. Coming off a strong season, Highsmith has paired with T.J. Watt to form one of the league’s most dangerous pass-rushing duos. His presence has been critical to Pittsburgh’s defensive success, and his departure would create a massive void.
Highsmith’s 2023 campaign saw him record 7 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and 14 quarterback hits. Beyond the stats, his flexibility to drop into coverage and his relentless motor have made him a fan favorite and a player coaches consider indispensable.
For the Raiders, landing Highsmith would be a game-changer. The team has struggled to build consistency on defense, often leaning heavily on Maxx Crosby. Pairing Highsmith with Crosby could finally give Las Vegas the two-headed pass rush they’ve long been searching for.
Still, it remains unclear whether Pittsburgh would entertain such a deal. Trading away Highsmith for Meyers would provide the Steelers with another offensive weapon, but it would also weaken one of their greatest strengths: their pass rush. With contract talks and roster strategy in play, this floated proposal may simply be posturing — but it has certainly caught the attention of both fan bases.
Whether or not the trade ever materializes, one thing is certain: the Raiders’ interest in Alex Highsmith underscores just how valuable he has become in Pittsburgh, and how far he’s come from being overlooked to now being the centerpiece of major trade rumors.