The Pittsburgh Steelers came out of their bye in Week 7 and picked right up where they left off. Another hard-fought victory was achieved, as they defeated the Los Angeles Rams 24-17, moving to 4-2 on the season.
The offense still wasn’t operating at maximum capacity, but things were certainly better for Pittsburgh against Los Angeles than in previous weeks. Quarterback Kenny Pickett loved having wide receiver Diontae Johnson back in the lineup, as he caught five passes for 79.
His yardage was second only to Geroge Pickens, who also caught five passes for 107 yards. The Steelers’ streak of not reaching 400 yards of offense continued, but if they can continue winning games, they won’t care about their lack of yardage gained.
During their bye week, the offense was the major topic of discussion. People wondered what offensive coordinator Matt Canada would change to get this unit on track. While Week 7 lacked much explosiveness, especially on the ground, a turnover-free game with timely execution that results in a win is something the coaches will take 10 out of 10 times.
For this group to really take off, could some moves ahead of the deadline be in the works? Maybe another weapon for Pickett would help elevate the offense. Could that weapon be veteran wide receiver, DeAndre Hopkins of the Tennessee Titans?
According to Sportsbetting.ag, via Zachary Smith on X, the Steelers are the odds-on favorites to acquire Hopkins in a trade. They are currently 5-1 to land him, while the Cleveland Browns and Seattle Seahawks are tied for second at 6-1.
It is certainly surprising to see that, as a wide receiver is far from the most pressing need in Pittsburgh. Pickens and Johnson are atop the depth chart with Allen Robinson, Calvin Austin and Miles Boykin behind them.
Hopkins is one of the most popular names in trade rumors ahead of the deadline as the Titans look like they are ready to sell. Safety Kevin Byard was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles to kickstart the process and more moves are expected. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Hopkins moved, but it would be shocking if he ended up in the Steel City.
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