In a move that turned heads across the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. The surprising decision ended weeks of rumors and speculation, and now, for the first time since the deal was finalized, Steelers general manager Omar Khan has addressed the trade publicly, offering insight into the team’s process.
Steelers GM Omar Khan Opens Up on George Pickens’ Trade to Cowboys
Khan was quick to clarify that Pickens didn’t demand a trade. Despite reports suggesting internal friction, the GM emphasized that the wideout remained professional.
However, after some exploratory calls during the 2025 NFL Draft failed to yield a deal, the organization believed a fresh start would benefit both sides.
“The Cowboys reached out during the week and we had some conversations internally and with George’s agent (David Mulugheta),” Khan said. “We discussed where things were with George, where they are and where things could go. We think it makes sense for everyone.”
Pickens, who Pittsburgh drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, had been surrounded by trade rumors for much of the offseason. Khan had previously gone on record stating that the team wasn’t shopping him. Still, behind closed doors, Pittsburgh stayed open to possibilities.
That changed in a big way when the Steelers signed DK Metcalf to a five-year, $130 million contract — a blockbuster deal that reshuffled the wide receiver depth chart and made it clear who the new WR1 would be moving forward.
#Steelers GM Omar Khan, speaking for the first time since trading George Pickens, says Pickens did not request a trade, but a fresh start for all parties made sense after some trade calls during the Draft didn’t result in a trade.
“The Cowboys reached out during the week and we…
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 9, 2025
Trade talks with Dallas began during the draft. The Cowboys initially offered a fourth-round pick, but Pittsburgh wasn’t ready to accept. Eventually, post-draft negotiations resumed, and the teams agreed on a deal: Dallas would send a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder to Pittsburgh, while the Steelers would include a 2027 sixth-round pick in return.
Pickens, 24, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and will become a free agent in 2026. While he flashed major upside during his time in Pittsburgh, his tenure also included inconsistent play and occasional sideline outbursts that drew scrutiny.
With Pickens out, the Steelers will look to new faces to step up. The team signed veteran Robert Woods in free agency and may elevate speedster Calvin Austin III into a larger role. Pittsburgh also has a young quarterback room to support, prioritizing wide receiver depth.
For Pickens, the move to Dallas offers more than a clean slate. It’s a high-stakes opportunity. Playing in the Cowboys’ pass-heavy offense, and with a significant payday looming, this season could determine how the rest of his career — and his bank account — unfolds.