Steelers' Omar Khan Potentially Cooking Up Insane Broncos Trade That Could Land Courtland Sutton And Pick #12

Fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers would love to believe they know exactly what General Manager Omar Khan will do throughout the 2024 NFL Draft, but no one really has a clue. A new rumor seems to come out regarding the franchise every day, but it is widely recognized that offensive line, cornerback and wide receiver depth is much needed. A new wrinkle developed on Tuesday when Tony Pauline reported that Khan and co. are in talks with the Denver Broncos about trading up to the 12th overall pick, specifically for Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell.

This wouldn't be the first time in recent memory that the Steelers and Broncos agreed on a first-round trade. In 2019, Pittsburgh moved up and got the 10th overall selection, which ended up being a mistake, as Devin Bush was taken. That cost then-General Manager Kevin Colbert the 20th overall selection, a second-rounder in the same year, on top of a third-round pick the following offseason (2020).

Just five years later, it is being reported that the Steelers might be on the move again, but what makes this even more interesting is it could be more than just draft capital that is exchanged, if it were to occur. Assuming Khan wants to jump up eight spots and grab Joey Porter Jr's new partner-in-crime, some fans may be hesitant, given the other needs that the team has to address. Enter disgruntled wide receiver Courtland Sutton.

Sutton did not show up to Denver's voluntary offseason activities and while word out of the Broncos' facility is that trading him is not an option, the right offer could absolutely pique their interest. Pittsburgh giving up the 20th overall selection is a given in this scenario, but what comes after is a little more tricky when you throw a solid wideout in Sutton in the deal.

Hypothetically, if Khan could land the 12th overall pick (presumably Mitchell) and Sutton for one of his third rounders in 2024 and, a second and another late-rounder in 2025, it's a solid deal for all parties involved. What's even more attractive about that deal is crossing off the cornerback and wide receiver positions, while a center such as Zach Frazier could be looming in round two.

The Steelers could also target someone like Braden Fiske in the second round with an aging defensive line becoming more and more of a question mark. Most importantly, Khan has proven he knows how to operate in the trade market. One would have to assume, based on a glaring need for wide receiver, Sutton's name could be brought up in any talks regarding the 12th overall selection, and that Khan would find a way to make it work.

This would be an aggressive transaction, but kills two birds with one stone and allows Khan to hold onto a second and third round pick in 2024. All options are on the table when it comes to the "Khan Artist." Denver may not have a choice if Sutton's camp has already mentioned that he would like to play elsewhere going forward. George Pickens would have a new play-maker alongside him.

Steelers' Biggest Challenge In Potential Broncos Trade Is Quarterback

The report from Pauline certainly raises questions about Denver's interest in one of the top three or four quarterbacks set to be drafted in the top 15 or so. Moving back would likely eliminate them. While trading Sutton could be necessary, the right package would need to be put together for it to happen. If Khan were to pull it off and get a stud young cornerback on top of a starting-caliber wideout, it immediately starts the draft weekend off with a bang and sets up for millions of happy Steelers fans.

Would you trade with Denver if it meant landing both Mitchell and Sutton?