Steelers Predicted to Trade NFL Draft Pick for $44 Million Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers have yet to replace George Pickens and find another starting boundary receiver. Pickens, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in May, was supposed to be the No.2 receiver opposite DK Metcalf.

Though Pittsburgh could look to sign a playmaker in free agency, For the Win's Cory Woodroof predicts the Steelers will trade a fifth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the New York Jets for wide receiver Allen Lazard, who has close to quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

"The Steelers need another wide receiver, and Lazard is one of Aaron Rodgers' guys. We expect Pittsburgh and the New York Jets will work something out before the season that sends Lazard to the Steel City. It just feels automatic at this point," Woodroof wrote.

Lazard has never played an NFL season where he and Rodgers aren't on the same roster. The veteran receiver spent five seasons in Green Bay with Rodgers, and followed the legendary quarterback to New York in 2023 by signing a four-year, $44 million deal with the Jets in free agency.

Though Lazard isn't a high-end No.2 wide receiver, the Iowa State product can still provide adequate production and be a potential difference maker for the Steelers. Lazard posted 530 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games with New York last year.

The 29-year-old's most productive campaign came in 2022 with the Packers, when he tallied 60 receptions for 788 yards and six touchdowns. Lazard also had eight touchdowns in 2021, proving to be a dynamic red zone threat for Rodgers.

Pittsburgh is desperate for any sort of help at receiver. Sending a Day 3 pick for Lazard could turn out to be a solid move, as the former undrafted free agent's chemistry with Rodgers could lead to a productive season with the Steelers.