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Josh Downs or Brian Thomas Jr.? Steelers’ Trade Deadline Move Could Shape WR Future
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- Josh Downs or Brian Thomas Jr.? Steelers’ Trade Deadline Move Could Shape WR Future
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been linked to several wide receivers as the NFL's Nov. 10 trade deadline approaches . Pittsburgh thought it had solved its woes this past offseason by trading for a veteran and drafting a rookie. A few injuries later, the unit needs immediate help and could use a long-term solution if one makes sense.
Two big names on the trade market have come up most often: Colts receiver Josh Downs and Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. It is not clear whether Pittsburgh has made a formal offer or held serious talks ahead of next week's deadline. In a perfect world where the Steelers could land either player, which one makes more sense?
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Why Josh Downs Is the Better Trade Option
Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen (right) congratulates wide receiver Josh Downs (1) on his touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Downs is a shifty receiver who can play on the boundary and in the slot, but he lines up primarily in the slot. He has been effective since the Colts drafted him in 2023, and he has been on the field far more than Thomas this season. Downs' production puts him neck and neck with DK Metcalf this season. Through seven games, he has 30 receptions for 330 yards and a touchdown.
The downside with Downs is that the Steelers don't necessarily need another slot receiver. Roman Wilson is expected to return soon, and Germie Bernard can play in the slot and on the boundary. Downs' rookie contract also expires after this season, so he will become a free agent when the new league year begins. Still, Downs could make an immediate impact for a Steelers passing game that has struggled the last three weeks.
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Why Brian Thomas Jr. Is the Better Trade Option
Dec 22, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA;Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) makes a catch against Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Decamerion Richardson (25) in the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Thomas had a spectacular rookie season in 2024. He reeled in 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns in what appeared to be a breakout year. However, something changed drastically after the Jaguars hired Liam Coen as head coach. Thomas regressed to 728 receiving yards in 2025 and is on pace for less than 300 yards in 2026. His talent didn't disappear. Still, Thomas' limited snaps make him the bigger gamble of the two, especially if Pittsburgh has to give up high draft capital to get him.
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On the flip side, if Thomas can recapture even his 2025 form, he would be well on his way to becoming the Steelers' WR2. Pittsburgh would also control Thomas' contract for one more season and could extend that to two by exercising his fifth-year option. His lack of playing time makes him an immediate risk, but the reward could be high if he pans out.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 4, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
