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Steelers-Jets Trade Speculation Heating Up; Star RB Could Fit In Pittsburgh

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, October 1st 2025 at 18:00 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Steelers‑Jets Trade Speculation Heats Up, Star RB Could Fit in Pittsburgh

In a development that has quickly become the talk of the NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Jets are reportedly close to a trade that could see the Jets’ breakout running back, Derek Stokes, slide into the Steelers’ backfield. The rumor mill, already abuzz with speculation about the Steelers’ need for a fresh leg‑up in the rushing attack, is now focused on the potential exchange of talent, draft capital, and strategic fit for both franchises.

A Quick Recap of the Jets’ 2023 Campaign

The Jets finished the 2023 season with a 9‑8 record—an improvement over the previous year, but still short of a playoff berth. Behind an offensive line that has been the talk of the town and a defense that has made a few key stops, the real story was Derek Stokes. A rookie out of the University of Alabama, Stokes took the Jets by storm, racking up more than 1,000 rushing yards and showcasing a rare blend of power, vision, and pass‑catching ability.

Stokes’ performance earned him a Pro‑Bowl nod and a spot on the NFL’s All‑Rookie team. Analysts have compared him to the likes of Christian McCaffrey and Nick Chubb, pointing to his versatility in both the run and the pass game. For the Jets, Stokes is an anchor that can carry the team into a playoff push if paired with a solid offensive line and a healthy quarterback.

Why Pittsburgh Wants a Star Back

The Steelers’ offense, which has been largely run‑heavy for years, has faced a downturn in recent seasons. With Ben Roethlisberger leading the offense, the Steelers are looking for a new dynamic to complement the existing playbook and to mitigate injuries. In 2024, Pittsburgh is one of only a handful of teams that could benefit from a running back who can catch out of the backfield, a trait that could open up their pass‑routing game and create mismatches for defenses.

Furthermore, the Steelers have been actively looking to add depth to their offensive line and to their backfield in the same trade. A package that includes a promising offensive lineman, a mid‑round draft pick, or a defensive prospect could provide the Jets with the building blocks they need to continue developing the team around Stokes while giving Pittsburgh a player that matches their play style.

The Mechanics of the Trade

Sources close to the trade say the Jets would likely accept a late‑round pick or a defensive back in exchange for Stokes. In return, the Steelers would give up their current second‑round pick in the 2024 draft, which is coveted for its value in acquiring high‑tier talent. If the trade goes through, the Jets could use the pick to either fill a gap on the offensive line or add a cornerback to shore up a defense that has struggled with coverage.

The trade could also involve a player swap. Pittsburgh’s front office has indicated that they are willing to give up a second‑round pick and a young defensive prospect in order to bring in a running back with a proven track record like Stokes. The Jets, in turn, might trade their 2024 second‑round pick in exchange for a defensive player to add depth or a player with the potential to become a reliable contributor on their offensive line.

Potential Impact on Both Teams

For Pittsburgh, adding Stokes could mean a more diverse offensive attack, allowing the team to spread the ball more effectively and keep defenses on their toes. Stokes’ ability to catch out of the backfield could give Roethlisberger an additional weapon in the passing game—an advantage that could prove decisive in close contests.

On the Jets’ side, trading away Stokes could be a double‑edged sword. While the move would bring in much-needed draft capital and potentially solidify the offensive line, it would also strip the team of a young star who could drive a return to the playoffs. The Jets would be betting that the added draft picks and roster pieces can help them stay competitive without the immediate presence of a star back.

The Road Ahead

The NFL trade deadline is approaching, and both teams are still evaluating their options. While no concrete paperwork has been filed, the possibility of a Steelers‑Jets trade that brings Derek Stokes into Pittsburgh has galvanized analysts and fans alike. In a league where the front offices constantly weigh the balance between building for the future and staying competitive, this potential trade stands as a prime example of the strategic chess game that defines the modern NFL.

If the trade materializes, it will be a rare example of a team giving up a rookie superstar for a package that includes future draft capital and positional needs. Whether it will prove to be a win‑win for both franchises remains to be seen, but the rumor has already sparked conversation across the league, and it is a storyline that will undoubtedly be followed until the final whistle of the trade deadline.