Steelers Emerge as Team to Watch for Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively seeking a wide receiver as the NFL trade deadline approaches, as Sports Illustrated first reported. While the team has been linked to Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs—who requested a trade—a new potential target has emerged in Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports that the Steelers are a team to watch for Thomas Jr. While Fowler notes that the Jaguars have not fully committed to a trade, the former first-round pick has been in and out of the lineup and would likely welcome a move. According to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, Jacksonville is seeking a Day 2 NFL Draft pick in exchange for the 24-year-old.

Thomas Jr. recorded more than 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns during his rookie campaign. He is currently in the third season of his rookie contract, with the 2027 season remaining and a fifth-year option available this upcoming offseason.

However, Thomas Jr.'s production has dipped under head coach Liam Coen. This season, he has managed only nine receptions for 105 yards and one touchdown, and has not recorded a catch since a Week 4 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Pittsburgh is currently navigating injuries at the position; while the roster includes Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, Roman Wilson, and Germie Bernard, two are on Injured Reserve. To facilitate a deal, the Steelers possess two third-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft, one of which was acquired from the Dallas Cowboys in a trade involving Broderick Jones.