NFL Rumors: Massive Update On George Pickens' Future With Steelers

May 06, 2025
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens reacts after a catch during 2025 game.

The George Pickens trade saga has entered a new chapter, and it’s growing harder to imagine the 24-year-old receiver sticking with the Pittsburgh Steelers beyond 2025. 

Multiple insiders, including James Palmer of Underdog and ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, have reported growing tension behind the scenes, with Pickens’ rocky relationship with the organization fueling speculation that a trade could still happen before November’s deadline.

Though Pickens wasn’t moved during the NFL Draft, that hasn’t cooled the chatter. He unfollowed the Steelers on social media during the draft weekend, and Palmer revealed that things “have not gone well behind the scenes, at all” between Pickens and the team. 

Add in Pittsburgh’s recent blockbuster trade for DK Metcalf—followed by a massive four-year, $132 million contract—and it’s easy to see why analysts doubt the Steelers will pay two receivers top dollar.

Pickens’ Future Tied to Rodgers, but Clock Is Ticking

The Steelers’ hopes of luring Aaron Rodgers to Pittsburgh might be the only thing keeping Pickens off the trade block—for now. Fowler noted that the team is doing everything it can to keep the wide receiver room appealing for a future Hall of Fame quarterback. "They’re not really in the business of trading off capable pieces right now," Fowler said on SportsCenter. But even with that in mind, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette bluntly stated, “I do not expect him to be here beyond this year.”

Despite the tension, Pickens reportedly wants to stay in Pittsburgh and work things out with head coach Mike Tomlin. Still, with no contract extension in sight and Pickens entering the final year of his rookie deal, the team may be quietly waiting for the right offer. The Dallas Cowboys were linked to Pickens during the draft and could emerge again if their receiver room doesn’t improve.

Steelers Facing Make-or-Break Call on Pickens

Pickens has been a productive player through chaos, tallying over 2,800 receiving yards in his first three seasons despite inconsistent quarterback play. But after a 2024 campaign marred by penalties, missed meetings—including a Christmas Day game—and questions about his attitude, Pittsburgh must weigh his talent against the long-term fit.

If Pickens opens the season strong, the Steelers could either cash in on his rising value or hope a big year boosts their playoff hopes. But the writing is on the wall: unless something changes, 2025 is likely his swan song in black and gold.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

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