The Pittsburgh Steelers received an interesting update on one of their potential wide receiver trade targets, as Brian Thomas Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars was practically engaged in a disappearing act during the team's final game before the NFL trade deadline.
During the Jaguars' Week 9 Thursday Night Football matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, Thomas Jr. finished the game with zero yards on zero receptions, including zero targets. He also saw just 19 snaps of action on offense, which may be explained as an attempt by the Jaguars trying to keep a trade asset healthy days away from the deadline — and that should have the Steelers foaming at the mouth.
Thomas, who was drafted by the Jaguars in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, had a stellar
rookie season in which he recorded 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. He subsequently earned Pro Bowl honors in 2024 for his efforts, but his play over the next one and a half seasons was far from ideal. Over the past 22 games, Thomas has caught just 58 passes for 824 yards and four touchdowns. He has been a complete non-factor in the Jaguars' offensive game plan over the past several games and is likely in need of a fresh start.
Although one prominent insider believes the Steelers won't make any moves before the NFL trade deadline, the team's wide receiver room has too many red flags to simply ignore, especially when a wide receiver target like Thomas appears to be gearing up for a new opportunity elsewhere.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' trade target disappearing act raises eyebrows ahead of NFL deadline
