As the NFL trade deadline looms, Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers has emerged as one of the top trade candidates at his position. Fresh off a career-best 1,000-yard season in 2024, Meyers is in the final year of his contract and has made no secret of his desire to move on from Las Vegas. Disgruntled after failed extension talks during the offseason, the 29-year-old wideout publicly confirmed his interest in a trade last week. “Oh, for sure,” Meyers told ESPN’s Ryan McFadden when asked about his desire to be dealt. “But I’m a professional at the end of the day. I’m just trying to play good football.”
With the Raiders struggling at 2-5, trade rumors surrounding Meyers have intensified. CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin recently highlighted four teams as the most logical landing spots for the possession receiver: the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Francisco 49ers. Among them, the Steelers and 49ers stand out as teams with clear needs at wide receiver, making Meyers an attractive target.
Meyers may not be a flashy, game-breaking wideout, but his reliability is unmatched. Known for having some of the surest hands in the NFL, he almost never drops passes and has consistently delivered production, posting 800 or more receiving yards in four seasons, including his breakout 1,000-yard campaign in 2024. His ability to play both inside and outside roles adds versatility, making him a valuable addition for any offense.
What makes Meyers even more intriguing is the belief that he hasn’t yet reached his full potential. His previous seasons came with quarterbacks who were less accomplished than those he’d likely play with in Pittsburgh or San Francisco. With better play-callers and passers, Meyers could elevate his game further.
The San Francisco 49ers are grappling with injury concerns at wide receiver, which could make Meyers an appealing option. Rookie Ricky Pearsall has missed four straight games, Jauan Jennings is battling through injuries, and star Brandon Aiyuk’s return remains uncertain, though the team indicated on Friday they might open his practice window next week. Despite these challenges, the 49ers appear to be in a transitional year and may hesitate to part with draft capital for a player in a contract year like Meyers. San Francisco seems more likely to ride it out with their current roster, banking on their injured players returning to health.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, on the other hand, have a more pressing need for a receiver like Meyers. Behind DK Metcalf, their wide receiver group lacks depth and production, leaving them vulnerable if Metcalf were to miss time. The Steelers, who went all-in during the offseason by adding veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, are clearly aiming to contend now. Rodgers’ tenure in Pittsburgh may be short-lived, making it critical for the team to bolster their roster for a playoff push.
Meyers would provide an immediate boost as a reliable target for Rodgers. At 29, he’s young enough to serve as a multi-year solution if he performs well and earns an extension. His sure hands and route-running savvy would complement Pittsburgh’s offense, giving Rodgers a dependable option to move the chains.
If any receiver is poised to be traded before the deadline, Meyers is the prime candidate. His professionalism, proven production, and versatility make him an ideal fit for teams looking to add a steady presence to their receiving corps. While the 49ers may opt to stick with their current group, the Steelers’ need for depth and their win-now mentality make them the more likely suitor. A move to Pittsburgh could be the perfect opportunity for Meyers to showcase his talents on a bigger stage, potentially turning a trade into a career-defining moment.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Meyers and whether the Raiders’ castoff can find a new home with a contender. For the Steelers, landing him could feel like pulling off a heist—a low-risk move with high-reward potential.