Tampa Bay finds itself in a crowded wide receiver room as the 53-man roster deadline approaches this Tuesday. Among the names under scrutiny is Trey Palmer. Despite flashes of potential in his rookie year, Palmer’s 2024 performance suggests he might be more valuable as a trade asset than a fixture on the final roster.

In his second season, Palmer appeared in 15 games but posted modest numbers, just 12 receptions for 172 yards and one touchdown, averaging a solid 14.3 yards per catch. He also contributed on special teams with 136 punt return yards and added a 14-yard kickoff return. While those stats reflect efficiency, they also mark a noticeable step back from his rookie campaign (39 receptions, 385 yards, 3 TDs).

Given a deep receiver corps boosted by the arrivals of Emeka Egbuka (2025 first-round pick), Jalen McMillan (2024 third-rounder), and Tez Johnson, alongside cornerstones Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr, Palmer’s path to meaningful snaps is narrower this season.

Still, his elite speed, in the low 4.3s, and ability to contribute on special teams retain his trade value. If Tampa looks to capitalize, the Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be the most logical trade partner. Following the departure of George Pickens and the acquisition of DK Metcalf, the Steelers need a vertical threat to complement their revamped receiving corps, and Palmer fits that mold.

For the Buccaneers, trading Palmer for a late-round draft pick could provide more value than keeping him.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Could the Bucs trade a wide receiver before roster cuts?