With their roster in turmoil, one NFL insider thinks the Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t done making big changes, notably at wide receiver.
George Pickens has been floated in trades for most of the offseason, with Underdog’s James Palmer saying that Pickens could be dealt between now and November’s trade deadline as they prepare to load up for the 2026 NFL Draft that will be rich in quarterback talent.
“I didn’t see — I really wasn’t sold on a [George Pickens trade] happening during the [2025] draft. There was a lot of rumors about that, and I understand the rumors because his time in Pittsburgh, in a lot of people’s minds, is limited — mine included — for several reasons. You don’t pay DK Metcalf what you paid him and then pay the other receiver a high-caliber salary,” Palmer said via USA Today, noting that a roster with two high-priced receivers seldom works out for teams. “It has not gone well behind the scenes, at all, between George Pickens and the Pittsburgh Steelers — and everybody involved.”
Palmer adds that it was a “very difficult year for all involved” between the Steelers and Pickens.
Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed last season that Pickens was late to the Steelers’ Christmas Day loss, among many other incidents for the talented receiver, which appeared to frustrate Tomlin throughout the season.
PIckens unfollowed the Steelers on social media during the NFL draft in April but he was ultimately not traded.
Palmer gave further clarity on his X account on PIckens.
“Steelers give up a 2nd for D.K. Metcalf – DK signs massive contract — Pickens is entering final year of rookie contract – Pickens time with the Steelers has been, politely … an adventure — Steelers have been doing work on WRs,” Palmer wrote.
The Steelers could consider waiting to make the trade if they sign Aaron Rodgers, in hopes a connection with the future Hall of Fame QB could increase Pickens’ value ahead of the deadline.
Rodgers was seen working out with newly acquired Metcalf on the UCLA campus earlier this offseason and Pittsburgh opted not to draft a quarterback, further leading to the assumption that he will be leading this team in 2025.
Pickens, who is a free agent after this season, could be a welcome addition to a contending team on the final year of his rookie contract.
The former Georgia Bulldog has been highly productive in three years in the league, accumulating at least 800 yards receiving in each of his first three seasons despite Pittsburgh’s revolving door at quarterback.
Pickens had 900 yards on 59 receptions in 2024.