The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly active in the lead-up to the NFL trade deadline set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. Following the acquisition of wide receiver Mike Williams from the New York Jets, the Steelers have made another notable addition by trading for linebacker Preston Smith from the Green Bay Packers, as reported by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
According to Matt Schneidman from The Athletic, the terms of the deal involve the Packers receiving a 2025 seventh-round draft pick in exchange for Smith. The Green Bay Packers, currently at 6-3 and positioned in the midst of the NFC playoff race, are not typically characterized as deadline sellers. However, the upcoming birthday of Smith, who turns 32 this month, and his limited playing time—just 54 percent of available defensive snaps in nine games, according to Pro Football Reference—prompted the decision. The move allows Green Bay to create opportunities for younger players while still gaining a draft asset.
For the Steelers, adding Smith is a strategic enhancement to a defense that ranks second in the league, allowing an average of only 14.9 points per game. This strong defensive unit has been a significant contributor to Pittsburgh's 6-2 record and their lead in the AFC North. While Smith has recorded only 2.5 sacks this season, he brings experience, having had three consecutive seasons with eight or more sacks. His performance in 2023 includes 48 tackles, eight sacks, four passes defended, and two forced fumbles. Smith's durability is an asset as he has played in at least 16 games every season since being drafted in 2015. Joining the Steelers allows him to operate in a favorable pass-rushing environment, where he will benefit from the attention opposing offensive lines must pay to T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward, potentially creating more opportunities for impactful plays.
