The recent blockbuster NBA trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks—featuring Anthony Davis and Luka Dončić—sent shockwaves through the sports world. While trades of that magnitude are rare in the NFL, especially mid-season, Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report gave it a shot.
Among Knox's six proposed trades, one involves the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers, with the 49ers giving up a significant haul to acquire a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection.
The Steelers were heavily interested in Brandon Aiyuk last offseason while the receiver held out for a new contract. Knox suggests Pittsburgh shifts its focus to another 49ers wideout in this trade scenario—Deebo Samuel. According to the proposal, the Steelers would acquire Samuel, running back Jordan Mason, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 second-round pick.
Who would the 49ers get in return? Star edge rusher T.J. Watt.
Watt would immediately address San Francisco's pass-rushing struggles, forming a dangerous tandem with defensive end Nick Bosa. The dominant pass rusher has posted at least 11.5 sacks in six of the last seven seasons, peaking at 22.5 in 2021, when he earned NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors. He also led the league in sacks in 2020 (15) and 2023 (19).
Knox acknowledges that Pittsburgh would only consider moving Watt if contract negotiations stall.
"Watt is entering a contract year, and the Steelers plan to discuss an extension this offseason," Knox explained. "... If the Steelers can't sort out a new contract, they could expect a massive return for the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year candidate. They could flip him for some much-needed offensive help and valuable draft capital in this scenario.
"Pittsburgh needs offensive help after tanking just 23rd in yards last season. It first needs to settle its quarterback situation—there's a good chance that either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields will be back—but improving the supporting cast is on the to-do list."
Would the 49ers consider trading Deebo Samuel?
General manager John Lynch recently made it clear that the 49ers have no plans to part with Samuel, but Knox argues the receiver could become expendable. The team used a first-round pick last year on Ricky Pearsall, while Jauan Jennings has emerged as a legitimate weapon for Brock Purdy. The 49ers also committed a significant amount of money to Brandon Aiyuk, though he is recovering from a torn ACL.
Mason, a restricted free agent, would add further value to the trade. The young running back proved his reliability while filling in for an injured Christian McCaffrey, averaging 5.2 yards per carry in 2024. However, with McCaffrey healthy, Mason's opportunities may remain limited. The 49ers are also fond of Isaac Guerendo, who will enter his second NFL season.
Is this trade realistic?
Would the two players and draft picks be enough to entice the Steelers? Perhaps, but it would come at a steep price for the 49ers.
"While that would be a lot for the 49ers to give up, it would give them the elite edge-rushing complement to Nick Bosa that the defense has long lacked," Knox wrote. "San Francisco is hoping that a healthier roster can put it back in the Super Bowl conversation in 2025. However, bolstering the league's 29th-ranked scoring defense is a must."