Shaheed Could Be The Right Fit For The Steelers

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With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly evaluating potential acquisitions to enhance the speed and explosiveness of their offense. One player garnering increasing attention is Rashid Shaheed, the dynamic wide receiver and former return specialist for the New Orleans Saints.

Former NFL QB Kurt Benkert recently posted on Twitter, “Shaheed to Pittsburgh as their speedster could be crazy,” — fittingly enough, the Steelers have already reached out to the Saints regarding Shaheed's availability.

Despite the anticipated return of Calvin Austin III from a shoulder injury sustained in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings, the Steelers' offense continues to lack a larger-bodied receiver with speed who can effectively complement DK Metcalf on the perimeter. While Metcalf offers physicality and excels in contested catch situations, the team still lacks a consistent deep threat capable of stretching opposing defenses vertically.

Rashid Shaheed is currently playing under a one-year contract valued at $5.2 million and is set to become a free agent in March 2026. With the New Orleans Saints undergoing a transitional phase, the organization may be open to trading Shaheed in exchange for future assets. Notably, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently proposed a trade scenario in which Shaheed would be sent to Pittsburgh in return for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick.

Despite the Saints’ 1–6 record this season, Shaheed has emerged as the team’s second-leading receiver, recording 356 receiving yards on 30 receptions and scoring two touchdowns.