The Pittsburgh Steelers have been adamant that, despite trading for D.K. Metcalf, they wanted to keep both him and George Pickens on the roster this year. Both are potent vertical threats, and despite some quarterback concerns, the receiver room would remain a strength.
That may no longer be possible for the Steelers.
Amid a flurry of rumors that Pittsburgh was shopping the star receiver, he decided to unfollow the team on Instagram. While many will be quick to ignore that factoid, distancing yourself from your current team is a common occurrence when a player feels like they are on their way out.
There is certainly logic in moving Pickens. His contract expires after this season, and it is hard to imagine the Steelers paying both he and Metcalf top dollar. While a great player, he also hasn’t taken the steps forward to become a truly elite playmaker yet.
Then you have to account for his childish antics. On the field, he is known for allowing his emotions to get the best of him. This has caused some avoidable penalties to occur, as well as bad looks for his blocking effort, and when talking with his fellow players.
Pickens certainly seems miffed by the team right now, and with the draft just a few hours away, the Steelers need to do the smart thing and trade him.
The Pittsburgh Steelers need to trade George Pickens during the 2025 NFL Draft
With Metcalf in the room, you are no longer forced to ride with Pickens. While a great player with untapped potential, his immaturity makes it impossible to lock him up long-term.
This draft class is notably weak at receiver. While there are a few decent options, most seem like better complementary options as opposed to true top options. With Metcalf established as your top guy for the foreseeable future, Pittsburgh has the flexibility to deal with this weak class.
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The team is also desperate for another day two pick after sending their second-round pick for Metcalf. Moving on from Pickens would net them at least a third, if not more, satisfying that need.
There are a handful of teams with receiver woes looking to get over the hump. While I would caution sending him to a team like the Bills or Chiefs, given they are an elite AFC opponent, the Patriots would make sense, as would the Falcons and Cowboys.
Perhaps my favorite scenario involves the Packers. You could both trade Pickens and move back a few spots to land a second-round pick plus some more. A move like that makes too much sense for a team looking to acquire more picks.
No matter who the partner is, a trade tonight or tomorrow makes a lot of sense for the Steelers. They have done their homework on this receiver class and can add a good complement to the room. They still have Calvin Austin and an unknown in Roman Wilson on the depth chart. They could even sign a veteran after the draft to replace Pickens.
In short, be ready to hear that Pickens has a new home following the drafts conclusion.