The Pittsburgh Steelers have had one of the more puzzling offseasons in the NFL. They let quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields sign in New York while they play a cat-and-mouse game with 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers.
While many fans are still wondering who will take snaps under center for Pittsburgh in 2025, the team also has question marks at the wide receiver position. After bringing in a highly touted wideout for a pre-draft visit, a former NFL general manager believes the Steelers are shopping George Pickens.
George Pickens Could Be on the Trade Block
The Steelers reportedly met with former Texas Longhorns star Matthew Golden, who ranks among the best wide receivers in the 2025 class. It led some people to the conclusion that they are planning to move on from their 2022 second-round NFL Draft pick.
“The Steelers are open for business on George Pickens. That’s why they brought in [Golden] for a visit,” the former general manager claimed, according to Pittsburgh radio analyst Andrew Filliponi on X.
Former NFL GM: "The Steelers are open for business on George Pickens. That's why they brought in [Golden] for a visit." pic.twitter.com/zEAqvFD0wa
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) April 4, 2025
With the final year of his rookie contract approaching, it may be in Pittsburgh’s best interest to receive something in return for Pickens before he can depart in free agency. Pickens reeled in 59 receptions for 900 yards in 2024 despite shaky quarterback play.
A deep-ball specialist, the former Georgia Bulldog is one of the best contested-catch wideouts in the league. He recently turned 24 and could be a highly coveted trade target for receiver-needy teams.
Meanwhile, Golden was the fastest 40-yard dash runner at the NFL Scouting Combine, clocking an incredible 4.29-second time at the event. He caught 58 passes for 987 yards and nine touchdowns last season, solidifying himself as an elite prospect. Golden is a potential candidate to be taken at No. 21 overall by the Steelers.
If scouting receivers was not enough proof, Pittsburgh also traded for standout receiver DK Metcalf this offseason. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, he is expected to lead the receiving corps for Mike Tomlin’s squad. The organization immediately handed Metcalf a contract extension, yet there is no indication that Pickens and the Steelers are close to an agreement yet.
GET DRAFTING: Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator With Trades
Meanwhile, Golden would give the Steelers a younger, cheaper option on the outside while they look to spend money on other positions. Even with the uncertainty surrounding the team’s signal-caller, Golden and Metcalf would form a fantastic duo for years to come.
Pittsburgh clearly values Metcalf far more than they do Pickens, and the trade made him an expendable piece. If what the GM said is true, Pickens may have played his final game in black and gold.