Steelers Linked to NFL's Rushing Yards and TDs Leader in Shocking Potential Trade: Report

Pittsburgh, PA — September 24, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade for Christian McCaffrey, the NFL's all-time leader in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns from his Carolina Panthers days, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The move comes as Pittsburgh's run game struggles with an average of 3.4 yards per carry through three weeks, prompting general manager Omar Khan to consider shaking up the backfield ahead of a crucial Week 4 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

McCaffrey, now with the San Francisco 49ers, has been the league's premier running back since his explosive 2019 season with Carolina, where he led the NFL with 1,387 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns—records that still stand as benchmarks for dual-threat backs. His versatility, combining elite rushing with receiving prowess (116 catches for 1,005 yards that year), makes him a perfect fit for an offense relying on Aaron Rodgers' precision passing but lacking ground control. The Steelers, who rank 28th in rushing yards per game (78.7), see McCaffrey as the "bruiser" to complement Jaylen Warren's change-of-pace style.

Sources indicate the 49ers, facing cap constraints and McCaffrey's $17.2 million cap hit in 2025, are open to discussions. Pittsburgh could offer a package including a second-round pick in 2026, a third-rounder in 2027, and a young asset like rookie running back Kaleb Johnson, who has struggled with just -1 yard on two carries through three games. "McCaffrey would transform our offense overnight," an anonymous Steelers executive told Schefter. "He's the missing piece to balance Rodgers' arm with a ground attack that terrifies defenses."

The trade rumors gained traction after Pittsburgh's 21-14 win over the Patriots in Week 3, where Warren managed only 47 yards on 18 carries (2.6 YPC). Despite the victory, former QB Ben Roethlisberger criticized the line's inconsistencies, echoing concerns about protecting Rodgers, who has faced seven sacks this season. McCaffrey's addition could alleviate pressure by forcing defenses to respect the run, allowing Rodgers to exploit play-action.

Fan reaction on X has been electric, with one post reading, "McCaffrey to Pittsburgh? Dream come true for Steelers Nation!" However, the 49ers' reluctance to part with their star amid a 3-0 start adds intrigue. As the trade deadline approaches on November 5, the Steelers' pursuit of McCaffrey could reshape the AFC North race, blending Pittsburgh's grit with San Francisco's explosiveness.