This Steelers-Jaguars Trade for Yannick Ngakoue Could Actually Work
By Jerry Trotta
The Jacksonville Jaguars are a hot mess right now, and their hand may be forced to trade defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, who demanded a trade after being franchise-tagged in early March.
After parting ways with some key members of their defense over the past year, most notably Jalen Ramsey, Calais Campbell and AJ Bouye, it looks as if Ngakoue will be the next Jags star making his exit.
The 24-year-old budding star will have a handful of suitors, and one team that could enter the sweepstakes could be the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Jaguars are aware I no longer have interest in signing a long term contract in Jacksonville. Duval, I love you and gave you guys everything I got. I’m thankful for the journey and look forward to continuing my career elsewhere. -91
— Yannick Ngakoue (@YannickNgakoue) March 2, 2020
The Steelers would only agree to a trade if they had the funds necessary to sign Ngakoue to a contract extension. As of this writing, Pittsburgh only has a little over $10 million in cap space to work with.
To create some room for an Ngakoue extension, the Steelers could include linebacker Vince Williams and his $7 million cap hit in the deal. Cutting him isn't a realistic option because the team would only recoup approximately $1 million. The 30-year-old comes with $6 million in dead money, though that wouldn't be a problem for the Steelers if they were able to trade him.
The Jaguars are evidently set on assembling draft capital for Ngakoue, but the franchise likely won't receive the first-rounder its reported to be seeking in return for the Pro Bowler. Therefore, Pittsburgh ponying up its second-round pick (No. 49 overall) and one of its two fourth-rounders -- presumably the No. 135 overall pick, should get a deal done here.
Jacksonville Jaguars will use their franchise tag on pass-rusher Yannick Ngakoue, per league sources. The tag will allow them to try to trade him if that’s what they decide or are forced to do.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2020
The Steelers would need to make more transactions to be able to afford Ngakoue, but this trade is definitely feasible. As for the Jags, well, they would be adding some valuable draft capital and would still have the option to cut Williams and save $1 million this year, or $4 million if they release him next season.