After the Pittsburgh Steelers traded for wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. during NFL free agency, the team could now be looking to move on without star wide receiver DK Metcalf. The team originally brought in Metcalf last offseason to pair with young wideout George Pickens before trading him to the Dallas Cowboys. Now, under the leadership of Mike McCarthy, the offense could be searching for a new identity led by Pittman. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers most likely retiring in 2027 if he returns to Pittsburgh, many should expect McCarthy to build a new offense, and with Metcalf’s current deal, they could be inclined to trade him.

Originally selected as a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the former Ole Miss product signed a four-year, $132 million extension. The hope was that the receiver would be a long-term asset to this offensive attack, but it has been disappointing. Metcalf hauled in 59 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns. It’s unusual for a receiver like Metcalf to have a down season, and he might need a reset either way.

Steelers, Chiefs Connected in DK Metcalf Trade
Does the Proposal Work?

To put it short, no. The Kansas City Chiefs are cap-compliant, which means the team can’t afford Metcalf’s contract. If the Steelers found a way to take away his guarantees, there is a chance. However, nobody should expect the Chiefs to target him now that he’s locked in on a massive deal. Kansas City was interested during the 2025 offseason before Metcalf joined the Steelers, but the Chiefs won’t be the only possible suitor for Metcalf.

There are too many teams needing a solid receiver, and even though he’s on the older side, here are some teams that could bite.

Other Potential Fits
Tampa Bay Buccaneers

After losing Mike Evans to the San Francisco 49ers this offseason, the team could use another veteran receiver to serve behind Emeka Egbuka. While they still retained Chris Godwin for now, the Buccaneers should find a way to get Metcalf a part of this offense. Baker Mayfield has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in the league, and it’s time to put him in the driver’s seat of an NFC Championship Game. It didn’t work out for Evans in the playoffs, but something could change if it’s Egbuka, Godwin and Metcalf.

This would probably be the hottest NFC team in the league if they find a way to capitalize and trade for Metcalf.

Carolina Panthers

Speaking of capitalizing, the Carolina Panthers are another NFC Team that will likely be contenders for several seasons if Bryce Young can stay consistent. The team drafted Tetairoa McMillan, who turned into a star, and after signing plenty of defensive talent again this free agency, it’s time for the Panthers to upgrade their offense. It’s been rumored that the Panthers could trade receiver bust Xavier Legette, and he might fit into the identity of what the Steelers are looking for.

Pittman and Legette, in one rebuilding era led by McCarthy, might be what puts them in the best spot possible. For the Panthers, Metcalf pairing with McMillan sounds like a nightmare for opposing defensive attacks in the air.

Chicago Bears

Despite the Bears trading DJ Moore, nobody should put it past the team if they trade for an established, veteran receiver. Luther Burden and Rome Odunze are the future for Caleb Williams’ offense, but they still need a playmaker. Kalif Raymond and Jahdae Walker aren’t anywhere on the level of Metcalf, so it shouldn’t be surprising if the Bears try to get him at some point to boost their chances for a Super Bowl, which the team was favored in 2026.