Weidl quiet on Aiyuk front

by Bo Marchionte
Published August 15, 2024, 01:15 PM

Pittsburgh, PA – Andy Weidl, the GM of the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been known for his strategic roster-building approach, focusing on both drafting and acquiring talent to strengthen the team.

The idea of signing Brandon Aiyuk or another high-caliber receiver could fit into the Steelers’ ongoing efforts to bolster their offense, especially considering the emphasis on surrounding Russel Wilson with top.

“Yeah, I would just say that’s an Omar (Khan) question, just out of respect,” Andy Weidl, the Steelers assistant general manager. “Omar is the point guy and all things along those lines’ player acquisition. I would just defer that to him.”

Little information to quench the irresistible appetite regarding breaking news on Aiyuk to the Steelers but Weidl did add that the team is diligent to uncovering all opportunities when it comes to improving the roster. 

“One of the things that we do do as with any player that becomes available,” Weidl said. “We always do our due diligence guys, and we always talk about them. But I just think out of respect to the process and people involved, I would defer that to Omar.”

Acquiring Aiyuk would be a significant move, as he’s an emerging star with the San Francisco 49ers. His versatility and ability to stretch the field would complement the Steelers’ current receiving corps. If Weidl and the Steelers were to pursue Aiyuk, it would likely happen before the season starts since there has been so much rumor between the 49ers and Steelers with a deal in place. 

Weidl was in place for several different trades with other teams to acquire significant NFL talent. Not ho-hum acquisition that barely moves the needle. Along with the gunslinger persona Khan has shown it’s why the Steelers have been rumored so much in the Aijuk talks. 

“I’ve been in two different players where that has happened,” Weidl commented on acquiring veteran talent. “The last place, first round pick and third round pick obviously, A.J. Brown, and then Baltimore with Anquan Boldon.” 

Pittsburgh has the money heading into 2025 to possibly pursue any other potential high caliber free agent receivers in case the Aiyuk deal never comes to fruition. Inner division rival Bengals have two top tier talents at receiver in both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. 

If Aiyuk isn’t attainable, Weidl and GM Omar Khun might explore other top receivers in the free-agent market in 2025. Looking ahead to 2025, potential key free agents at wide receiver could include players like CeeDee Lamb, Ja’Marr Chase (if their respective teams don’t lock them up long-term), or Marquise Brown. 

Weidl’s approach would likely depend on the development of the current roster, salary cap space, and how the 2024 season unfolds. The Steelers’ strategy in free agency will be shaped by their immediate needs, cap flexibility, and the growth of their young talent. Weidl’s experience with the Eagles, where he helped build a Super Bowl-winning team, suggests he’ll be thorough in evaluating all options to enhance the roster.

“It’s an opportunity right,” Weidl said about going after any player that is on the block. “We always say right player, right price.”

Photo Credit Frank Hyatt/College2Pro.com