The Pittsburgh Steelers are making it clear they’re not done building around Aaron Rodgers. According to league sources and reports surfacing this week, the team is in active trade discussions with the Washington Commanders to acquire All-Pro wide receiver, whose contract is worth $68 million over three years.
He a model of consistency and toughness during his time in Washington, has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in each of the past four seasons, despite playing with a rotating cast of quarterbacks. His ability to win in tight coverage, stretch the field, and operate in clutch situations has made him one of the most respected wideouts in the league.
With the Steelers now officially in “win-now” mode after adding Rodgers on a one-year deal, pairing him with a top-tier route-runner like Terry McLaurin could transform the offense from competent to championship-caliber.
“Terry McLaurin’s one of the most quarterback-proof receivers in the NFL,” an AFC scout told Sporting News. “Now imagine what he can do with Rodgers.”
Why the Move Makes Sense
Steelers’ WR room saw a shakeup this offseason. George Pickens was traded. Calvin Austin III is unproven. DK Metcalf has joined the team but is still building chemistry with Rodgers. Pat Freiermuth provides a strong interior option at tight end, but the team still lacks a second outside threat to draw consistent defensive attention.
Terry McLaurin fills that gap perfectly. Not only would he provide Rodgers with a reliable WR1 or WR2 option, but his presence would open up the field for everyone else — including Metcalf and Freiermuth. His 4.35 speed, precise routes, and mental sharpness align perfectly with Rodgers’ anticipatory style.
Trade Mechanics and Risk
While no official deal has been made, insiders believe the trade would likely involve a 2025 second-round pick and a conditional 2026 mid-rounder, along with potential cap restructuring to absorb Terry McLaurin’s deal. The Commanders, now rebuilding under a new coaching regime, may be open to moving veteran pieces in exchange for draft capital.
Still, this wouldn’t be a short-term rental. Terry McLaurin is under contract through 2026 and would give the Steelers a long-term weapon even beyond the Rodgers window — especially if a younger QB takes over in the future.
Final Thoughts
If completed, this trade would signal a serious shift in the Steelers’ offensive identity — from conservative and developmental to aggressive and veteran-led. With Rodgers at the helm and Terry McLaurin potentially lining up outside the numbers, Pittsburgh could suddenly look like a real threat in the AFC.
Whether it’s smoke or fire, one thing is clear: the Steelers are not playing it safe in 2025.
