The Pittsburgh Steelers appeared to have a realistic solution for their offensive tackle depth concerns, but that option disappeared quickly once the Atlanta Falcons entered the picture. Kansas City Chiefs tackle Wanya Morris had quietly emerged as a possible trade target for Pittsburgh before ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Atlanta completed a deal for the former third-round pick.
The move leaves the Steelers still searching for stability behind Broderick Jones, whose recovery from a neck injury continues to shape the team’s plans heading into training camp. Morris may not have been viewed as a guaranteed starter, but internally he would have checked several important boxes for Pittsburgh’s offensive line.
| Category | Details |
| Player | Wanya Morris |
| Current Team | Kansas City Chiefs |
| Rumored Team | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Contract Status | Rookie contract |
| Salary Cap Hit | Affordable depth option |
| Trade Likelihood | Moderate before Falcons trade |
| Latest Insider Update | Falcons completed trade, per Jeremy Fowler |
| Potential Return | Mid-to-late draft compensation |
Which teams were interested in Wanya Morris?
Pittsburgh made sense as a logical landing spot because the team still lacks proven tackle depth behind Jones and rookie Max Iheanachor. Morris had starting experience with Kansas City and brought versatility that could have allowed him to compete immediately on the right side.
The Falcons, however, moved aggressively. Atlanta’s offensive line depth became a priority after offseason roster changes, and the front office clearly believed Morris was worth acting on before the market developed further.
For the Steelers, the attraction was simple. Morris has appeared in 43 games and started 16 times since entering the league in 2023. That kind of experience matters for a team trying to protect a reshaped offense and avoid another season derailed by injuries up front.
What insiders are saying about the trade rumors
The initial buzz surrounding Morris grew after reports linked multiple teams to Kansas City’s surplus along the offensive line. Pittsburgh was never publicly identified as the favorite, but league chatter suggested the Steelers were monitoring affordable veteran options.
Jeremy Fowler ultimately reported that the Falcons closed the deal before other interested teams could seriously advance discussions.
That timing matters. Pittsburgh now enters a critical stretch of the offseason with fewer experienced options available on the market.
Contract details and salary cap implications
Morris remained an appealing trade candidate largely because of his rookie contract. Any acquiring team would have gained a cost-controlled tackle without taking on a massive cap burden.
That affordability likely increased his value around the league. Pittsburgh, which continues balancing future extensions and roster flexibility, could have added Morris without disrupting long-term financial planning.
Instead, the Steelers may now need to rely more heavily on internal development. Dylan Cook could receive additional reps while Iheanachor adjusts to NFL speed.
How the trade could impact both teams
Atlanta strengthens its offensive line depth with a player still developing physically and technically. The Falcons also gain flexibility if injuries hit during the season.
Pittsburgh, meanwhile, faces more pressure to get healthy quickly. Jones’ recovery timeline now becomes even more important because the team missed an opportunity to add experienced insurance at a position that already carried uncertainty.
The Steelers still have time to explore veteran additions before camp opens, but Morris was one of the cleaner fits available. That door is now closed. :::
Get the latest Sports news and live updates. Download the TOI App.Barsha Dutta has been covering the NFL since 2024, bringing a fre...
Read MoreBarsha Dutta has been covering the NFL since 2024, bringing a fresh and engaging perspective to the game. With Masters in Literature, she blends passion with insight, making football stories both relatable and exciting for readers. When she’s not writing about the gridiron, Barsha enjoys tending to her garden and immersing herself in the world of K-pop. She also occasionally covers entertainment and pop culture news. With her unique mix of interests, she connects sports fans to the NFL in a way that feels both personal and vibrant.
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