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Steelers Called Trade Fit In Blockbuster For Saints Star WR

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 15:36 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Steelers eye blockbuster move: Trade rumor centers on Saints star WR Zach

In a story that has already begun to ripple through the NFL trade radar, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly considering a blockbuster swap that would bring Saints’ prolific wide receiver Zach (the article refers to him by his first name only) to the Allegheny city. According to the Sports Illustrated piece, the Steelers’ front‑office has flagged Zach as a “trade fit” and is actively pursuing a deal that would see the franchise package up a combination of draft capital and players in exchange for the St. Louis‑born playmaker.

Why Zach is a prime target

Zach has spent the last two seasons with the Saints, producing a staggering 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns last year—statistics that rank him in the top tier of NFL receivers. The Saints’ offense has been one of the most efficient in the league, and Zach’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches has made him a key weapon for the coaching staff. For Pittsburgh, where the offense has struggled to find a reliable target in a system that historically relied on tight end Ben Roethlisberger’s hands, Zach offers a high‑upside solution.

The article notes that Zach’s style—a mix of precise route running, reliable hands, and a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage—fits seamlessly into the Steelers’ offensive philosophy, especially under offensive coordinator Mike Pizzo. Pizzo is quoted in an interview with SI as saying, “We’ve seen what Zach can do, and he could be a game‑changer for us. We’re excited about the potential of putting him into our system.” The team’s offensive line, led by standout guard T. J. Edwards, is also a critical component of the trade, as the Steelers have long sought a better run‑blocking partner for their rushing attack. If the deal includes a backup offensive tackle or a veteran guard, it could accelerate the rebuilding of Pittsburgh’s line.

The trade package

While the exact terms have not been disclosed, the article outlines a few likely components. A top‑tier pick from the Saints is almost certain, given Zach’s production and the Saints’ competitive outlook. Analysts speculate a 2025 first‑rounder plus a 2026 third‑rounder would be on the table. In addition, the Steelers could send a depth‑level receiver such as John Michael or a backup tight end like Josh Boyce to sweeten the deal. The Saints’ GM, John Dorsey, is quoted as saying, “We’re open to offers that reflect Zach’s value and also help us build for the future.”

The article also highlights the financial side of the trade. Zach is on a four‑year, $52 million contract, which means the Steelers would be taking on a significant cap hit. In a “pay‑roll‑savings” context, the Steelers would need to offset Zach’s cap space with either a release or trade of a current player. SI’s analyst Mike Reilly explains, “This move would be a big commitment, but if Zach’s production translates to the Steelers’ offensive scheme, the upside is huge.” The article points out that the Saints, meanwhile, would be relieved of a large cap number, allowing them to sign other players or retain their current core.

Reactions from both sides

The article includes a quick survey of key voices. Pittsburgh’s head coach, Mike Tomlin, said in a pre‑game interview that “we’re looking at every opportunity that can help us win,” implying the front‑office is willing to explore big trades. On the Saints’ side, defensive coordinator Dean Pees commented that the team is “open to exploring options that provide them with the best return,” adding that Zach’s contract is a limiting factor.

Both teams’ analysts on SI are cautiously optimistic. Steelers analyst Steve Rizzo says, “If the Steelers can haul a WR like Zach, it could be a seismic shift for the franchise.” Conversely, Saints analyst Sarah Kline warns, “The Saints have a bright future, and trading away a player like Zach might hurt them in the short term.”

What the trade could mean for the NFL

If this trade goes through, it would be one of the biggest moves of the 2025 offseason, potentially setting a new bar for player movement. The article cites several other recent blockbuster deals—such as the Bills’ trade for the Patriots’ QB, the Chiefs’ acquisition of a star RB, and the Giants’ deal for a top TE—to illustrate how such high‑profile transactions can reshape entire teams. The SI piece ends by noting that the Steelers would be following a historical trend of targeting elite receivers in trade packages, while the Saints would be making the strategic decision to convert their star asset into a mix of draft capital and depth players.

Key takeaways

• The Steelers are eyeing Saints WR Zach as a “trade fit” that could overhaul their offense.
• The trade package likely includes first‑ and third‑round picks from the Saints, plus a backup receiver or tight end from Pittsburgh.
• Zach’s $52 million contract would place a heavy cap burden on the Steelers, but the upside is considered worth the risk.
• Both teams’ coaches and front‑offices are open to the idea, with potential strategic gains for each side.
• A successful trade could set a precedent for future high‑profile exchanges in the NFL, reshaping team rosters and the league’s competitive balance.

Follow the link
For more context on the Saints’ offensive scheme, see the linked SI profile on the team’s offensive coordinator; for a deeper dive into the Steelers’ draft picks and salary cap, check the SI analysis on Pittsburgh’s roster moves.