Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has been a lightning rod for headlines this offseason. Trade rumors and behind-the-scenes tensions dominate discussions about his future with the team. As the Steelers prepare for the 2025 NFL season, this remains one of the most intriguing storylines in the Steel City.

Cowboys nearing trade for Steelers WR George Pickens

Pickens, entering the final year of his rookie contract, has been the subject of persistent trade speculation, fueled by the Steelers’ acquisition of star wideout DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks earlier this offseason. Pittsburgh signing Metcalf to a lucrative five-year, $150 million deal, has raised questions about Pickens’ long-term role on the team. According to multiple reports, the Steelers have fielded calls from teams. They are Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys, and Arizona Cardinals. All of them express interest in the 24-year-old receiver known for his acrobatic catches and big-play ability.

Pickens’ time in Pittsburgh could be “limited

NFL insider James Palmer recently added fuel to the fire, stating on Bleacher Report that “it has not gone well behind the scenes between George Pickens and the Pittsburgh Steelers.” Palmer suggested that Pickens’ time in Pittsburgh could be “limited,” citing the team’s financial commitment to Metcalf and Pickens’ reported frustration with his role following the trade. The wideout’s social media activity—most notably unfollowing the Steelers’ official Instagram account last month—has only intensified speculation about his discontent.

However, not all reports paint a bleak picture. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on May 3 that Pickens “wants to be in Pittsburgh” and “loves” head coach Mike Tomlin, despite briefly flirting with the idea of requesting a trade. Steelers general manager Omar Khan has also publicly dismissed trade rumors, emphasizing the team’s excitement about pairing Pickens with Metcalf. “We’re glad we have George and DK here,” Khan said before the 2025 NFL Draft.

Pickens remains a polarizing yet undeniably talented figure

On the field, Pickens remains a polarizing yet undeniably talented figure. In 2024, he led the Steelers with 900 receiving yards on 59 catches, scoring three touchdowns in 14 games. His highlight-reel grabs and ability to stretch the field have made him a fan favorite. But his inconsistent catch percentage (57.2% in 2023) and occasional on-field antics, including a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct against the Cincinnati Bengals, have drawn criticism. After a frustrating Week 18 performance last season, where he caught just one of six targets for zero yards, Bengals defenders reportedly noted Pickens spent much of the game complaining.

The addition of Metcalf, a proven No. 1 receiver, could reduce Pickens’ targets in a pivotal contract year. This is potentially leading to further tension. Some analysts, like Palmer, argue that the Steelers’ investment in Metcalf makes it unlikely they’ll offer Pickens a high-caliber extension, estimated at around $25.7 million per season based on his 2024 production. Others, however, believe Pickens’ untapped potential and chemistry with new quarterback Aaron Rodgers—should Rodgers join the team—could lead to a breakout 2025 campaign.

As the Steelers navigate this delicate situation, the coming months will be critical. Will Pickens embrace his role alongside Metcalf and solidify his place in Pittsburgh’s plans? Or will the trade rumors gain traction, with a move potentially materializing before the November 2025 trade deadline? For now, all eyes are on Pickens as he prepares to take the field for what could be a defining season.

Sources: Yahoo Sports, ESPN, Bleacher Report, Steelers Now, Sporting News