Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 16, 2024 1:57 am GMT
The Tennessee Titans have stumbled out of the gate in the 2024 NFL season, currently sitting at an unfortunate 0-3 record. With quarterback Will Levis struggling to deliver consistent performances, speculation is mounting about potential trade moves to salvage the season. One intriguing proposal circulating in the media has the Titans potentially trading star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and backup quarterback Mason Rudolph to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for veteran quarterback Russell Wilson and a fifth-round draft pick.
Trade talks revolve around the fact that DeAndre Hopkins is in the final year of his contract, and with the Titans struggling, it’s uncertain if he plans to stick around in Tennessee beyond this season. If the Titans continue to lose, the likelihood of them trading their star receiver before the upcoming November 5 trade deadline increases significantly.
Can Russell Wilson Revive Tennessee’s Hopes?
Russell Wilson, who was expected to be the starting quarterback for Pittsburgh this season, has been sidelined due to a calf injury, paving the way for Justin Fields to take the lead at quarterback for the Steelers. This situation has raised questions about Wilson’s future in Pittsburgh, especially if his rehabilitation does not progress as desired. Analysts consider Wilson a stable presence, capable of stepping into a leadership role when needed, particularly for a playoff-caliber team.
However, the idea of acquiring Wilson could be a gamble for the Titans. At 35 years old, his effectiveness is increasingly in question, especially considering he is on a one-year contract. Adding him to an already struggling offense might not be the solution Tennessee needs right now. The Titans’ offensive line has had its share of issues, leaving many wondering if Wilson would flourish in such an environment.
The Titans: Wielding Weaponry Without a Commander
While the Titans may have dynamic weapons in their receiver corps, they lack the stability at quarterback to turn potential into performance. DeAndre Hopkins has had a mixed start to the season, but his recent performance against the Green Bay Packers shows he is still a valuable asset. In that game, he caught six passes for 73 yards and a touchdown, making a strong case for teams looking for a reliable wide receiver before the trade deadline.
Many believe the Titans might approach trading Hopkins to ensure they receive adequate draft capital. Given his stature and talent, it would be unexpected for Tennessee to accept an aging quarterback and a low draft pick in return for a player of Hopkins’s calibre.
Making a move before the trade deadline could serve multiple purposes for the Titans:
- Clear Cap Space: Trading away older, higher-paid players can free up salary cap resources for future signings.
- Gain Young Talent: Acquiring draft picks allows teams to rejuvenate their rosters with younger talent.
- Assess Future Directions: A trade signals a willingness to pivot and rebuild if the current season’s trajectory seems bleak.
Pittsburgh’s Needs
The Steelers have their own set of challenges this season. While Justin Fields has performed decently as a backup, he has not yet asserted himself as a definitive starter. The franchise may soon look to Wilson as a safety net should Fields falter or get injured. With only three weeks into the season, Pittsburgh’s offense still seeks a consistent second wide receiver to complement standout George Pickens.
With the possibility of trading Wilson looming, finding a suitable replacement becomes a priority for the Steelers. They not only need to solidify their quarterback situation but also bolster their receiving corps as they aim for a playoff spot.
Conclusion
The upcoming November 5 trade deadline will serve as a pivotal moment for both the Titans and the Steelers. For Tennessee, trading DeAndre Hopkins could provide a way to pivot towards a new future while potentially acquiring necessary assets. For Pittsburgh, the situation surrounding Russell Wilson is fluid; decisions will need to be made based on the health of their starting quarterback and the performance of their current roster.
Both teams have some big choices to make that could change their seasons. If the Titans decide to take some risks, it might shake things up in the NFL and affect not just their team but others too. With the trade deadline approaching, everyone will be paying close attention to see what decisions the teams make to handle the challenges of the rest of the season.
