Steelers $6 million starter predicted to cut ties with Pittsburgh for 49ers

Entering the 2024 offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers needed to add a cornerback opposite Joey Porter Jr. in the secondary, and they eventually landed Donte Jackson in a trade with the Carolina Panthers.

The addition of Jackson sent a disgruntled Diontae Johnson to Carolina, and the move has been worth it thus far. The former second-round pick is in the midst of a career-best campaign, at least in terms of his coverage numbers.

Through 10 games, Jackson has posted a completion rate allowed of 54.5% and a passer rating allowed of 48.4, both of which are personals bests for him.

While the Steelers are set on the boundary for now, that may not be the case in 2025, as the 29-year-old cornerback is set to hit free agency next offseason, where he is likely to draw plenty of interest if he can finish the season strong.

One team that could have interest, per Bleacher Report's Scouting Department, is the San Francisco 49ers. B/R believes the Niners could land Jackson in free agency.

If the 49ers move off of Ward, Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson should be a top target. He recently turned 29 and experienced some up-and-down play with the Panthers, which could make him more of a budget-friendly option. However, Jackson has been fantastic since arriving in Pittsburgh via an offseason trade

As Bleacher Report points out, the Niners are in danger of losing star cornerback Charvarius Ward, who is also set to be a free agent. Ward has developed into one of the better cornerbacks in the league during his career and is going to garner a big deal on the open market.

If the Niners don't want to pony up the dough, Jackson would likely be a cheaper option, although we wouldn't consider him on the same level as Ward talent-wise. Nevertheless, San Francisco may have no choice but to go cheaper with $48.2 million in cap space next year, per Over the Cap.

The Steelers have a slightly better salary cap situation in 2025, with a projected $53.9 million to spend. Jackson has ingratiated himself well to the team and fan base, and if that keeps up, there's a good chance Pittsburgh will want to keep him.

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