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Steelers Unlikely to Trade Up for Caleb Downs Despite Talent
Proposed Dolphins trade ignores Pittsburgh's recent secondary overhaul
Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:12pm
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A recent ESPN article by Bill Barnwell proposed a bold trade scenario that would have the Pittsburgh Steelers trading up from the 21st overall pick to the 11th overall pick with the Miami Dolphins to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. However, this move would go against the Steelers' recent efforts to rebuild their secondary, having already signed several veteran starters like Jaquan Brisker, Darnell Savage, Jalen Ramsey, and DeShon Elliott.
Why it matters
While Downs is undoubtedly a talented prospect, the Steelers have already made significant investments in their defensive backfield and may not be inclined to part with valuable draft capital to move up and select another safety, especially given their other roster needs.
The details
Barnwell's proposed trade would have the Steelers sending their third-round pick in 2026 and a second-round pick in 2027 to the Dolphins in exchange for the 11th overall selection. This is similar to the cost the Steelers paid in 2020 to move up and select linebacker Devin Bush, a move that has been criticized as one of the worst decisions in Steelers history. However, Downs is widely regarded as a superior prospect to Bush at the time.
- The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.
The players
Caleb Downs
A highly touted safety prospect from Ohio State University who is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jaquan Brisker
A veteran safety the Steelers signed to a $5.5 million deal in March 2026.
Darnell Savage
A veteran safety the Steelers added to their secondary in the 2026 offseason.
Jalen Ramsey
A veteran cornerback the Steelers have under contract for the 2026 season.
DeShon Elliott
A veteran safety the Steelers have under contract for the 2026 season.
What they’re saying
“While talent is talent, the Steelers have effectively announced they're set at the position.”
— Neal Coolong, Author
“Downs is the type of player who can take on multiple roles, giving the defense schematic depth.”
— Gerry Dulac, Writer
What’s next
The Steelers will continue to evaluate their options leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, but it seems unlikely they will trade up to select Caleb Downs given their recent investments in the secondary.
The takeaway
While Caleb Downs is an elite talent, the Steelers have already made significant moves to bolster their defensive backfield in the 2026 offseason. Trading valuable draft capital to move up and select another safety may not be the best use of their resources, as they have other roster needs to address.
