The Pittsburgh Steelers traded for wide receiver DK Metcalf earlier this spring. Metcalf could significantly impact Pittsburgh’s passing game — especially if he stays healthy. His arrival becomes even more intriguing when paired with fellow playmaker George Pickens.
Steelers’ George Pickens Has Emerged as Legitimate Star
The Steelers drafted Pickens in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The Georgia product had plenty of promise going into the draft but still slipped to the middle of the second round.
It didn’t take long for Pickens to prove doubters wrong. He had a strong rookie year, finishing with 801 yards and four touchdowns on 52 catches — a solid start by any measure.
In 2023, he took it up a notch. The Steelers targeted him 106 times, and he caught 63 passes for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns. That included a career-high 18.1 yards per catch.
While his 2024 numbers dipped, Pickens still posted a solid season — 900 yards, 59 catches, and three scores.
Unfortunately, Pittsburgh hasn’t had much postseason success since drafting Pickens in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He had five catches for 87 yards and a touchdown in their playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite his production, the Steelers haven’t made a deep playoff push in recent seasons. And now, with Pickens’ contract situation up in the air and Metcalf’s arrival, there’s genuine uncertainty about his long-term future in Pittsburgh.
Big Money for DK Metcalf Could Push Pickens Out of Pittsburgh
After acquiring Metcalf, the Steelers signed him to an extension. That deal keeps the veteran wideout in Pittsburgh for five more years at an average of $33 million per season.
That makes a Pickens extension a challenging task. He’s earned a big raise, and with wide receiver salaries skyrocketing, it’s hard to picture him taking a hometown discount.
So, trade rumors are picking up. Pickens could bring in a serious return, and one local insider shared a clear stance on whether the team would be willing to pay two high-end receivers.
“There’s certainly a need for a wide receiver this year because Pickens, even if he is here this year, it’s only for one more year,” Post-Gazette Sports insider Ray Fittipaldo said. “They aren’t going to pay two receivers, $30 plus million, to be on their roster.”
If Fittipaldo’s right, it makes sense for the team to explore the market. Pickens is still just 24. An acquiring team would have to pay him, but his age and production would make him a top target. If Pittsburgh decides to move on after 2025, they could have plenty of suitors.
R you joking?