Steelers Roster Crunch Could Put 3 Familiar Names on Trade Block

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Steelers Roster Crunch Could Put 3 Familiar Names on Trade Block

Jobe Morrison · Athlon Sports

Fri, Jun 19, 2026 ·

3 min read

Kaleb Johnson

Although McCarthy has emphasized that everyone starts with a clean slate , Kaleb Johnson could still find himself on the outside looking in. The Steelers signed Jaylen Warren to an extension last year, added Rico Dowdle this offseason, and drafted intriguing prospect Eli Heidenreich. Will Pittsburgh keep four running backs? It's possible, but it doesn't seem like the most likely outcome.

Johnson could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere. The previous coaching staff gave him limited opportunities, and his least memorable moment came on a costly kick-return mistake in Week 2 . Still, the Steelers invested a third-round pick in Johnson because they believed he could become a long-term fit in Arthur Smith's offensive system . If another team still values that upside, Pittsburgh could explore a trade.

Jul 25, 2025; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson (10) participates in drills during training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Roman Wilson

Roman Wilson was one of the biggest mysteries in the Steelers' receiver room in 2025. After an injury-plagued rookie season, he appeared poised to earn a larger role. Instead, his opportunities remained surprisingly limited despite playing in a wide receiver room that lacked proven depth.

Part of that may have stemmed from trust issues—or a lack thereof—with quarterback Aaron Rodgers . Another factor could have been Wilson's fit within Smith's offense, which heavily featured tight ends. Like Johnson, Wilson could benefit from a fresh start in 2026. He possesses traits that make him an intriguing slot receiver, but the Steelers also drafted two wide receivers and acquired another via trade this offseason. That increased competition could make Wilson expendable.

May 28, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (right) participates in OTA drills at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Mason Rudolph

With Will Howard receiving elevated reps during mandatory minicamp and the Steelers selecting Drew Allar in the third round , Mason Rudolph increasingly looks like the odd man out. While Howard's performance in training camp could alter the situation, Rudolph still holds value as a potential trade asset.

Rudolph has made multiple starts throughout his Steelers career, including appearances in the postseason. That experience could appeal to teams searching for quarterback depth before the regular season.

He likely wouldn't command significant draft compensation, but the Steelers would probably welcome a late Day 3 pick if they decide to move him after the preseason. At the moment, there doesn't appear to be much trade interest in Rudolph. However, a strong preseason performance, or an injury elsewhere around the league, could quickly change that.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.