The Pittsburgh Steelers have expressed interest in acquiring Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins as they seek to strengthen their wide receiver group. After showing interest around the 2025 NFL trade deadline, the Steelers have once again been linked to Waddle during the current offseason due to their ongoing need for additional talent at the receiver position.
Despite having a solid WR1 in DK Metcalf, the Steelers’ receiving corps lacks depth, with their second-leading wideout Calvin Austin III recording only 372 yards in the 2025 season. Waddle’s proficiency, including multiple 1,000-yard seasons and a recent tally of 910 yards with six touchdowns, makes him a valuable target for the Steelers.
Dolphins’ Management Reaffirms Commitment to Waddle
Following the departure of former general manager Chris Grier, it was suggested that Miami might consider offers for Waddle. However, during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, new Dolphins GM Jon Eric-Sullivan made it clear that the team does not intend to trade Waddle.
My vision is for Jaylen to be part of this. … We are not actively trying to move Jaylen Waddle,
Sullivan stated, emphasizing the team’s plans to keep the receiver as a core piece of their roster moving forward.
Uncertainty Surrounds Dolphins’ Quarterback Situation
Along with the trade discussions involving receivers, Miami’s quarterback future remains unresolved. The Dolphins face financial challenges with Tua Tagovailoa due to significant dead cap costs if they release or trade him. Sullivan acknowledged ongoing evaluations of the roster and talked openly about the possibility of trading Tagovailoa.
As it pertains to Tua, we’ve had conversations with Tua and his representation. Everything is on the table, including the potential of a trade. We don’t know which way that’s going to go. There’s a lot of different factors at play, a lot of conversations being had.
Additional Roster Moves and Player Updates
Sullivan also addressed other roster decisions involving former Steelers players. He confirmed that Miami is open to trading safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. The release of offensive lineman James Daniels was attributed to his limited availability after suffering a season-ending injury early in the 2025 campaign.
Implications for Steelers and Dolphins Moving Forward
The Steelers’ pursuit of Jaylen Waddle reflects their urgent desire to improve their receiving options, but Miami’s firm stance keeps the receiver off the trade block for now. Meanwhile, the Dolphins’ quarterback situation adds complexity to their roster decisions, with potential trades still under consideration. The developments around key players like Waddle, Tagovailoa, Fitzpatrick, and Daniels will significantly influence each team’s strategies as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
