The Pittsburgh Steelers made the dumbest move of the 2025 NFL offseason — trading away George Pickens for compensation picks on Wednesday morning. It’s a head-scratching decision that leaves the offense weaker and, of course, after a series of bold and conflicting moves this year.
Let us rewind. Earlier this offseason, the Steelers made headlines by trading a 2025 second-round pick to acquire D.K. Metcalf — a move many saw as a sign the franchise was finally getting serious about building a top-tier wide receiver core.
They even doubled down on that strategy by extending Metcalf to a four-year, $132 million deal, securing their WR1.
At the time, the quarterback situation was a mess. But at least fans could hang their hopes on a lethal duo: Metcalf and Pickens. Two athletic freaks who could stretch the field, win contested catches, and bring some fire to an otherwise stale offense.
Now, just weeks later, the Steelers have inexplicably gutted that potential by dealing away Pickens — their most dynamic homegrown weapon — for future draft picks.
Why? That is the million-dollar question.
The Piitsburgh Steelers were foolish to trade George Pickens away
Sure, Pickens has had his maturity questioned — he's fiery, emotional, and outspoken. But that is also what made him such a standout. He has been one of the fastest-developing receivers in the league.
In 2024, he posted 900 yards on 59 receptions and was the primary target in Arthur Smith's offense. Despite the turmoil under center, Pickens showed he could be a top-tier playmaker.
Now, with Pickens gone, the Steelers are left with Metcalf — a proven star, yes — but he is not Superman. He cannot carry the entire passing game on his back, especially without a solid quarterback throwing the ball.
The offense already struggled in 2024, and this trade stripped it of the little explosiveness it had.
If Pittsburgh had chosen to work with Pickens — manage his personality, support his development — they could’ve had one of the most dangerous wide receiver tandems in the NFL. Instead, they gave up on him.
For what? A handful of picks that may or may not pan out?
It’s baffling, frustrating, and undeniably short-sighted. The Steelers didn’t just trade a player — they traded away their offensive identity.