Report: Steelers Pursued Eagles’ Fletcher Cox at Trade Deadline

With Stephon Tuitt’s absence still hindering the Steelers’ defense, the team reportedly made a cross-state call looking forward reinforcements at the trade deadline.

According to CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora, Pittsburgh approached the Philadelphia Eagles about acquiring All-Pro defensive tackle last week.

While the deal reportedly would have worked out financially for Pittsburgh, La Canfora says the team was unwilling to part with the draft capital Philadelphia was seeking.

“Pittsburgh has a limited cap situation, but Cox’s recently restructured deal afforded the team the flexibility required to add such a player,” La Canfora writes. “However, sources said it would have required at least a third-round pick to pry Cox away, and the Steelers were not willing to do so.”

Even though defensive end Cam Heyward is having a career year, the Steelers have undoubtedly missed Tuitt’s presence inside. Acquiring Cox would have provided Heyward a proven running mate, as the Steelers look to remain competitive in a hotly contested AFC North division.

Not only was Cox named First-Team All-Pro in 2018, but he has also been selected to six-straight Pro Bowls.

Still, Cox has not had the impact Eagles fans have become accustomed to this season. The 30-year-old has only tallied one sack and one tackle-for-loss in eight games. He has also returned a fumble recovery for a touchdown.