1. A legitimate blockbuster
Darnold isn’t the only player on the Jets’ roster who should be of interest to the Steelers. Second-year left tackle Mekhi Becton could also solve one of Pittsburgh’s biggest offensive issues moving forward.
Alejandro Villanueva is headed to free agency which leaves the Steelers with an opening for an immediate starter. Becton would address that need emphatically. Of course, the Jets justifiably see him as a franchise building block. They aren’t going to let him go without receiving a king’s ransom in return.
The most interesting way to construct this massive trade is as an addition to the idea that Claypool and a mid-round pick is a worthy package to land Darnold. Essentially, the Steelers would need to add enough compensation onto that package to justify Becton’s inclusion.
That’s going to require multiple first round picks. The Steelers would need to give up the No. 24 selection in this year’s draft as well as their 2021 first rounder to even get the Jets to the negotiating table. Throw in a second round pick in 2022 and it is an offer New York should strongly consider.
The Steelers’ front office would be paying a steep price, but they’d also get their quarterback and left tackle of the future in the deal.