Finding success in the NFL is tied directly to how well you can throw the football. Pittsburgh continues to neglect this thought each season despite constant reminders. The Steelers don't want to conform to the NFL norms of today. Instead, they try to reel the league back into the stone age. You cannot win in the NFL unless you have a top quarterback and offensive weapons around him.
George Pickens is heading into a contract year, and if you thought he was a headcase now, it could get worse. There has been speculation about his promptness to games and consistent distractions affecting the club. They need more talent like Pickens on the club, but they could do themselves a favor if they find better locker room-friendly individuals to replace him.
A failure to extend Pickens to a massive contract could result in a trade request. Here are three potential trade partners that make the most sense.
Buffalo Bills
Fewer fanbases have grown accustomed to disappointment more than the Buffalo Bills. They have never won the Super Bowl, and Buffalo fell short again. Kansas City is their boogeyman, and Josh Allen can't do enough to get over the hump. Buffalo will remain a top team in the AFC, but they need some star talent at the receiver position.
They are used to dealing with divas at receiver when Stefon Diggs was on the roster. Pickens is an electric playmaker and might have to be an evil you work with to defeat the Chiefs. Compensation from the Bills would be minor, but the Steelers could pry a day-two pick in the draft or perhaps a first-round selection if they sweeten the pot.
Dallas Cowboys
There might not be a poster franchise under more scrutiny than the Dallas Cowboys. Jerry Jones continues to make insane moves. He just promoted his offensive coordinator to the top job. Mike McCarthy staying put would've been the better option. Either way, Dak Prescott should return next year, and the Cowboys are desperate for relevancy.
Jones claims to be a quality general manager, but he has to put up or shut up this offseason. Pickens wearing the Dallas uniform is something many fans could envision. The Steelers should snag some immaculate compensation if they send their star receiver to the Cowboys. Taking advantage of an old football mind like Jones might be their best action.
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Miami Dolphins
A mock trade exchanging Pickens for a star Dolphins player is possible.
On the surface, it makes sense to call Miami and see if one of their top receivers is available. If they would be willing to trade either Jaylen Waddle or Tyreek Hill, Pittsburgh would be foolish not to make an offer. Hill and Waddle have electric speed and could slide into the Steelers starting lineup to replace Pickens.
The Dolphins are on the verge of collapse after this season, so they are looking for freshness. Attempting a trade that would send Pickens out for either Hill or Waddle in return might make the most sense. Both Dolphins have speed to burn and would be terrific additions to an offense that requires it. Even if Pickens sticks around, calling about Waddle or Hill should still be on the to-do list.