Why did Seahawks trade D.K. Metcalf? Revisiting Steelers deal to acquire star WR from Seattle

For six seasons, the Seahawks and D.K. Metcalf enjoyed a fruitful relationship. The hulking pass-catcher recorded three 1,000-yard seasons, including a 1,300-yard campaign in 2020, and nabbed two Pro Bowl appearances, establishing himself as one of the league's better wideouts in one of its most well-known markets.

All good things come to an end, though. Metcalf's production tailed off ever-so-slightly in his final few years in Seattle. A disappointing 2025 for both player and team gave way to a hectic offseason, one that eventually saw the Ole Miss alum dealt to the Steelers.

At his peak, Metcalf was one of the league's most imposing receivers. So why did the Seahawks feel so compelled to part ways with him just as he entered his prime?

Here's what you need to know.

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Why did Seahawks trade D.K. Metcalf?

Metcalf's name swirled in trade talks throughout the 2025 NFL offseason. Having missed the postseason in 2024, Seattle appeared content to take a step back in the hopes of fortifying its future.

With Metcalf's contract expiring after the 2025 season, the Seahawks were on the brink of having to make a major financial commitment to retain his services. Seattle didn't appear interested in doing so. Metcalf also seemed uninterested in committing his future to the Emerald City, formally requesting a trade in early March.

The distance between the two sides was too great to overcome. With Metcalf making his preference for a contending team known, the Seahawks' front office looked for a potential suitor. It landed on Pittsburgh, a team in need of some additional firepower to surround incoming QB Aaron Rodgers.

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Seattle received a second-round pick for its trouble. That selection was packaged with the No. 82 pick to acquire the No. 35 pick, used on South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori. Metcalf got his wish landing on a team that fancies itself a postseason contender. He also landed a big-money five-year contract from his new employers.

DK Metcalf trade details

Seahawks receive:

• 2025 second-round pick (No. 52)

Steelers receive:

• WR DK Metcalf

DK Metcalf contract details

• Years: Five
• Value: $150 million

Metcalf inked a four-year, $132 million deal upon his arrival in Pittsburgh. His $30 million average annual value tied for fifth-highest among wide receivers when he was dealt. His extension won't officially kick in until the 2026 season and features a $33 million AAV, the fourth-highest mark in football and the biggest amount of money in a contract in Pittsburgh history. The contract will take him to his age-33 season.

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Metcalf will receive $60 million guaranteed over the course of his contract. All of that total will be doled out to him in the first two years of his deal. Pittsburgh can get out of Metcalf's contract as soon as the end of the 2026 season. The Steelers would not owe Metcalf new money if they were to walk away from the deal, although they would be on the docket for an $18 million dead cap hit for his pro-rated signing bonus.

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