First Call: Report says Steelers have WR target if George Pickens trade happens; see goal of the year from future No. 1 NHL pick

The Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored to be considering a trade for George Pickens, and according to James Palmer of Bleacher Report, they have a potential replacement in mind. Palmer believes the Steelers are doing a lot of work on receivers and would love to have Iowa State pass-catcher Jayden Higgins.

Higgins, a 6-foot-4, 214-pound receiver, is an Eastern Kentucky transfer who was a third-team Associated Press All-American and second-team All-Big 12. He ranked 10th in the FBS with 87 receptions and posted 1,183 yards and a team-leading nine receiving TDs.

Palmer suggests that the Steelers might look for a high-volume No. 2 guy like Higgins if they decide to trade Pickens. “I know they’re doing a lot of work on receivers. Do they look for a high-volume No. 2 guy like a Jayden Higgins? Man, would they love to have him,” Palmer said.

The Steelers have also been linked to Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who has been slipping down draft boards. ESPN’s Mina Kimes believes Sanders could be a good fit for the Steelers, particularly with their current receiving trio and improving offensive line.

“They have a really good receiving trio now in D.K. Metcalf, George Pickens, and their tight end, Pat Freiermuth. The offensive line is heading in the right direction, particularly on the interior,” Kimes said.

FS1’s Mark Schlereth has defended Sanders, saying that his accuracy and quarterback acuity compensate for any lack of athleticism or arm strength. “Did Tom Brady have the requisite athletic ability? Did Peyton Manning have the requisite athletic ability? Arm talent doesn’t mean anything to me. Are you accurate? Shedeur is one of the most accurate QBs [in the draft],” Schlereth said.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates are set to face the Washington Nationals, with Paul Skenes pitching for the Pirates. Skenes may face former LSU teammate Dylan Crews, who is struggling with the Nationals.

In other sports news, NHL prospect Gavin McKenna has impressed with his skills, and Pittsburgh’s Joona Vaisanen has made a strong showing with Western Michigan in the NCAA men’s ice hockey championship.

The Steelers’ potential plans for Pickens and their interest in Higgins and Sanders are worth monitoring as the NFL draft approaches. With their current roster and potential draft picks, the Steelers could make some significant moves to strengthen their team.