Wide receiver-needy Steelers must monitor latest holdout

The Steelers still have a glaring need at wide receiver after trading Diontae Johnson to the Panthers earlier this offseason.

That's why Pittsburgh has been the subject of several trade rumors for veteran wide receivers and the reason the team must monitor the latest holdout.

According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton did not report to voluntary workouts on Monday as he seeks a new contract. Sutton has just $2 million guaranteed on the last two years of his deal.

However, if Denver is not interested in giving Sutton his desired payday, the team could look to trade him as it seems to be entering a rebuild.

If that's the case, the Steelers should give the Broncos a call. There's no denying the connection between Sutton and new quarterback Russell Wilson. 

The two played in Denver together the past two years and showcased their connection by combining for 10 touchdowns in 2023.

It likely wouldn't cost more than a Day 3 pick to acquire the 28-year-old either. The biggest hurdle in a potential trade would be the financials.

Sutton has a $17 million cap hit in 2024 and wants a new deal that could raise his per-year salary. That alone could deter Pittsburgh from making the trade, but general manager Omar Khan has proven his ability to manipulate the salary cap.

The former second-round pick reportedly underwent offseason ankle surgery but "it doesn't seem like it's cause for significant concern."

Sutton is looking for some security entering his seventh season in the league and his production could take a dip with Jarrett Stidham or whoever the Broncos end up rolling with at quarterback in 2024.

Reuniting with Wilson on the Steelers, who look ready to contend for a Super Bowl, seems to be one of the best-case scenarios for Sutton. The ball is in Denver's hands for now.