The Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason has been a rollercoaster, especially by their standards. General Manager Omar Khan has been aggressive in targeting players via trade (D.K. Metcalf) and those who were cut (Darius Slay, Aaron Rodgers), which seems to be due to those players not voiding potential compensatory picks the team has coming its way in 2026.
Now that they have made the Metcalf move, the receiver position doesn't stand out as a need for 2025. The problem is that their only other true starter, George Pickens, is a free agent after the season.
Even after Omar Khan said nothing at his recent press conference suggesting it, recent reports suggest Pickens could be on the move for the right price, given the money already committed to Metcalf.
Pittsburgh Steelers should ask for a second-round pick in exchange for George Pickens
Fox NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed Wednesday that teams have contacted the Steelers about George Pickens' availability. The Steelers are supposedly listening but not shopping the polarizing receiver.
Sources: Multiple teams have brought up #Steelers WR George Pickens in trade discussions, and he’s a name to watch this week. Pittsburgh isn’t actively shopping him, but the conversations have taken place.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 23, 2025
Pickens is entering the final year of his contract. https://t.co/XRvgZpWMcj pic.twitter.com/ehqs78og3u
This news shouldn't be a surprise after the Steelers gave D.K. Metcalf a huge extension following his arrival, but any potential Pickens trade should not come cheap. Even with just one year remaining on his rookie deal, the ability to have him in the building and potentially work out a new contract is extremely valuable, given how much receivers can make now.
Teams who have legitimate interest should be willing to part ways with a second-round pick, especially given the lack of true difference-makers in this year's draft. Love him or hate him, Pickens is a truly unique weapon who could be a huge addition for the right team.
If the Steelers truly want Pickens to be a Steeler for 2025 and beyond, I doubt a trade happens unless they can get back even more than they spent on Metcalf. If a deal gets done for a third-round pick or less, then I think it would be safe to say that they were not as high on him as they want everyone to believe.
I ultimately think he remains in Pittsburgh for at least this season, but don't be shocked if the Steelers pull off a huge trade involving Pickens during or after the draft.