The NFL has completed 19 trades since the new league year began on March 11, marking the most ever at this stage. The Pittsburgh Steelers contributed by acquiring wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts.
Less than two weeks into the 2026 NFL league year, the league reached a historic milestone with 19 trades since deals were permitted on March 11. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on March 20: 'This is the 19th trade since the new league year kicked off last week. The league never has had this much trade activity this early in the new league year.' One of those trades involved the Pittsburgh Steelers, who agreed to terms during the legal tampering period to obtain Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and a seventh-round pick in exchange for a sixth-round selection, a swap of just 14 spots. The deal was finalized last Friday, and Pittman signed a three-year, $59 million contract extension. Steelers general manager Omar Khan has actively pursued wide receivers through trades. Last year, the team brought in DK Metcalf while sending out George Pickens. With 12 draft picks remaining, Pittsburgh may pursue further deals to bolster the position. The increase in NFL trades reflects a shift toward more aggressive roster management, influenced by successful models like the Los Angeles Rams' acquisition of Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions in exchange for Jared Goff. General managers are younger on average, at 48.9 years old, with more than half under 50, including the 49-year-old Khan. This younger cohort appears more willing to execute deals compared to past conservative approaches.
