Wednesday morning brought gut-wrenching news for Steelers fans. George Pickens, the standout wide receiver and three-year sparkplug for Pittsburgh’s offense, was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder.
The move came just days after what many considered a flawless 2025 NFL Draft, where the Steelers passed on drafting a wideout entirely.
That decision made sense to most of us because we assumed DK Metcalf and Pickens were about to become one of the NFL’s most dangerous duos. But now, that dream is dust.
I was reeling. Pickens was the hope. Quarterback questions or not, the weapons on the outside were enough to keep optimism alive. And just as I was about to spiral, I stumbled across Chase Daniel’s reaction to the trade during The Facility podcast—and, oddly enough, it brought me some peace.
“I definitely don’t think they got robbed,” Daniel said plainly. “I think they slightly may have won the trade.” At first, I scoffed. But as he continued, Daniel made some valid points.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a risky decison trading George Pickens
He broke down the headaches that reportedly came with Pickens ' on and off the field. He also reminded listeners that a $30 million contract extension was likely on the table for Pickens next year.
“Is 900 yards and four touchdowns averaged through the last three seasons worth $30 million?” Daniel asked.
Fair question.
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In truth, Pickens had the production, but not the consistency or professionalism Pittsburgh has historically demanded from its wideouts. I still believe this season was set up to be his breakout. He had the skill and a threat on the opposite side, and for once. Unfortunately, the team chose to walk away before.
I won’t lie—my heart still says the Steelers should’ve stuck it out. But Daniel’s analysis reminded me there’s logic behind the move. They saved cap space, gained draft picks, and sent a message. Maybe there’s more to come.
I still believe in the Black and Gold. And like many fans, I’m holding out hope there’s a master plan behind all this.