The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been known for developing elite wide receiver talent, but they’ve also shown a willingness to move on from star pass-catchers when the time is right (Antonio Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster come to mind).
A recent report from an NFL insider suggests that George Pickens, the team’s explosive young wide receiver, could be on the trade block in 2025. While this might seem surprising, there could be legitimate reasons behind the Steelers’ willingness to part ways with a player who has shown flashes of brilliance.
Is Steelers WR George Pickens More Than Mike Tomlin Wants to Handle?
When asked how soon to expect Pickens to be traded, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Steelers insider Gerry Dulac replied, “2025.”
Pickens, 24, has been one of the most dynamic playmakers in Pittsburgh’s offense since the Steelers took him No. 52 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. His elite athleticism, contested catch ability, and big-play potential make him a valuable asset, but consistent attitude concerns could be more than head coach Mike Tomlin wants to handle.
One of the biggest reasons the Steelers could look to trade Pickens is his reputation for being a bit of a brat. While his competitive fire and confidence help him on the field, they have also led to occasional sideline outbursts and questions about his maturity.
Pittsburgh has historically favored players who fit into a disciplined, team-first culture. If Pickens continues to show frustration when not heavily targeted, the front office may decide to move on.
Steelers Trade for Seahawks WR DK Metcalf Puts Pickens’ Future in Doubt
The Pickens trade rumors have only intensified since the Steelers made a blockbuster move to acquire DK Metcalf and signed him to a massive contract extension. Metcalf and Pickens have strikingly similar skill sets — both are big-bodied, physical receivers with elite athleticism, contested catch ability, and the potential to dominate downfield.
With Pittsburgh now heavily invested in Metcalf as their primary outside threat, keeping Pickens may no longer make financial or strategic sense. Instead of committing significant resources to two similar receivers, the Steelers could trade Pickens while his value remains high, reallocating assets to other areas of need.
Pickens Fuels Trade Speculation With Viral Tom Brady Photo
Pickens isn’t doing much to quiet the trade rumors — in fact, he’s adding to them. The Steelers wideout recently posted a viral photo of himself with Las Vegas Raiders minority owner Tom Brady, immediately sparking speculation about a potential move to Sin City.
While the image may be harmless, the timing is suspicious, especially with Pittsburgh’s recent trade for Metcalf and ongoing uncertainty about Pickens’ future.
Fans and analysts quickly connected the dots, wondering if Pickens was hinting at a possible departure. Whether intentional or not, his social media activity only adds to the growing belief that the Steelers could be looking to move on.
Oh Boy: George Pickens posted a picture of him and the legendary Tom Brady on IG 👀
Brady is one of the owners of the Raiders…
Is Pickens hinting at a potential change?? pic.twitter.com/tt31iXQj2q
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman)
Contract, Salary Cap Considerations for Pickens
Pickens is heading into the final year of his rookie contract — a point at which the Steelers have traditionally locked up key players with extensions. If Pittsburgh chooses not to extend him before the season kicks off in September, it’s a strong indication that they don’t view him as a long-term piece of their future.
With the market for top-tier wide receivers skyrocketing, Pickens could demand a lucrative contract — something the Steelers are rarely willing to dish out. Rather than committing a massive sum to one player, the club might opt to trade him while his value is at its peak, using the assets to strengthen the roster with more cost-effective talent.
What Could Steelers Get in Return for Pickens?
Pittsburgh’s offense has been evolving, and depending on who is under center — whether the elusive Aaron Rodgers or the club’s 2024 starter Russell Wilson — the team may prioritize a different style of play.
If the Steelers lean more toward a balanced attack or favor spreading the ball around, Pickens’ role could be diminished, and he’d be an unhappy camper.
Additionally, if Pittsburgh continues to draft and develop wide receiver talent — as they have successfully done in the past — trading Pickens could become a strategic move to keep the offense fresh and dynamic.
If Pittsburgh does move on from Pickens, they would likely seek a significant return in the form of draft picks or established players. Given his age, talent, and potential, teams needing a true WR1 would be willing to pay a premium.
The Steelers could use this trade to address other pressing needs, such as bolstering the offensive line or adding more playmakers to their defense.