In the high-stakes chess game of NFL trades and drafts, Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan has consistently demonstrated a knack for making shrewd, value-driven moves.
As the 2024 NFL Draft looms, rumors of a potential blockbuster trade with the Dallas Cowboys are gaining traction, suggesting another masterstroke by Khan might be on the horizon.
Omar Khan’s Offseason Acquisitions and Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offensive Strategy
Under Khan’s leadership, the Steelers have made significant strides this offseason to revamp their roster, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. After a challenging 2023 season that saw the Steelers scrape through to a 10-7 finish, largely due to quarterback Mason Rudolph’s late-season heroics, changes were needed.
The team’s offensive struggles were apparent as they ranked among the league’s lowest in both points per game and passing yards. In response, head coach Mike Tomlin pledged a more “versatile and dynamic” offensive approach designed to “keep defenses off balance.”
Khan has delivered on this promise by acquiring quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, both considered reclamation projects with high upside. Additionally, the Steelers have bolstered their defense with key signings like linebacker Patrick Queen and safety DeShon Elliott, aiming to complement their new offensive strategy.
I cut up about 50 plays of Troy Fautanu's game. Tackles are not supposed to be able to move like this….
His play style/skill set is so unique that I can't really think of a good comp for him. pic.twitter.com/ob4kYlLf7R
— Derrick (@Steelers_DB) April 26, 2024
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Trading Down for Greater Depth
Speculation about Pittsburgh’s draft day strategy intensified following ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell’s suggestion of a potential trade down with the Dallas Cowboys. According to Barnwell, the Steelers could benefit from adding more depth across their roster, particularly at the offensive tackle position.
He noted, “This wasn’t a deep team a year ago, and the days when they had homegrown talent waiting to burst through the ranks up and down the roster appear to be in the past.” The proposed trade would involve Pittsburgh moving down in the first round, potentially enabling them to acquire additional picks in the top 100.
The strategic advantage, according to the Fitzgerald-Spielberger chart, would be roughly equivalent to gaining an extra pick at No. 152 overall. However, the value of the trade, as assessed by Jimmy Johnson’s draft value chart, would be considered even.
Despite the apparent balance of the trade, the Steelers face a significant decision regarding their offensive line. Their run-blocking showed signs of improvement in 2023, but pass protection has been a lingering issue, especially affecting the development of their quarterbacks.
Both Wilson and Fields, who tend to hold onto the ball longer, have faced considerable pressure, with sack totals exceeding those of most quarterbacks since 2022.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Interest in Troy Fautanu
The Steelers have shown a keen interest in Washington left tackle Troy Fautanu, a standout at his position. Pittsburgh’s offensive line coach Pat Meyer and area scout Mark Bruener were present at Washington’s Pro Day, taking the opportunity for a private meeting with Fautanu. His potential addition could address the team’s pressing need for reliable pass protection and bolster their revamped offensive approach.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Verdict on the Trade
While the trade proposition carries a grade of A- due to its strategic fit and potential to add depth, the actual benefit to Pittsburgh will depend heavily on how the draft board develops on the day.
The decision to trade down, potentially missing out on a top-tier offensive tackle at No. 20, is a calculated risk that could either solidify Khan’s reputation as a master strategist or backfire, depending on the draft’s dynamics and the development of the players involved.
