Pittsburgh Steelers speculation: Reasons suggest George Pickens' tenure with team could be short-lived
The Pittsburgh Steelers are no longer keeping George Pickens on their roster, following a trade made before the 2025 season. The Steelers sent Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, acquiring a 2026 third-round pick, a 2027 fifth-round pick, and an additional 2027 sixth-round pick in return[1][4][5].
With the offloading of Pickens, it appears the Steelers have made room for their new addition, D.K. Metcalf[4]. While the team's handle on pickings and cap management seemed to be a significant factor behind Pickens' departure, it's noteworthy that the impending free agency in 2026-27 would have required the Steelers to make a commitment regarding Pickens' future with the team[4].
Pickens himself has stated that he did not push for a trade, suggesting that the decision was primarily driven by the Steelers' strategic moves rather than any personal issues[2]. As for the Steelers, they will now look for weapons to support their QB duo that includes Will Howard, Skylar Thompson, and veteran Mason Rudolph[3]. In the midst of speculations about Aaron Rodgers joining the Steelers, the roster will need to be fortified with reliable targets for whoever takes charge[3]. Time will tell how the Steelers handle their new-look wide receiver corps in the upcoming season.
The Pressure Mounts for the 2025 Season
Steelers' coach Mike Tomlin feels the heat as fans call for a change
Amid the shake-up in personnel, the pressure on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin remains significant. Fans have been yearning for a Super Bowl victory for over a decade, with many calling for Tomlin's departure[3]. The Steelers will need Tomlin to navigate the challenges ahead and find a way to put points on the board with their revamped roster.
The quarterback position is up for grabs, with rookie Will Howard, Skylar Thompson, and veteran Mason Rudolph in the mix[3]. Analysts believe that, with this lineup, the Steelers may struggle to make a postseason run[3]. If the Steelers can address these concerns and work out a deal for Aaron Rodgers, they might have a shot at returning to contention.
The Steelers' 2025 season will be a crucial test for the organization. With new faces and old rivals on the horizon, only time will tell if the Steel City can reclaim its past glory.
[1] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35995700[2] https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2025/05/07/steelers-trade-george-pickens-to-cowboys/[3] https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10108808-why-the-pittsburgh-steelers-should-trade-george-pickens-to-the-new-york-giants[4] https://www.si.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/report-pittsburgh-steelers-will-trade-george-pickens-ahead-of-2025-season[5] https://www.profootballnetwork.com/steelers-reportedly-bringing-in-several- receivers-to-visit-with-during-tuesday-workout-the-pittsburgh-steelers- rumors/22571/twkryqtjowrn2ws7egeqsxgd9q
- College football fans will be watching closely as the NFL draft approaches, hoping to see if any promising wide receivers are selected who could potentially strengthen the Steelers' wide receiver corps.
- As the college football playoffs near, buzz continues to grow around potential standout players who might catch the attention of NFL scouts and possibly end up being drafted by teams like the Steelers.
- The offseason rumors surrounding the Steelers have focused on their potential acquisition of Aaron Rodgers, but even with his addition, the team will still need to carefully select their players during the draft to ensure a solid roster for the 2025 season.
- NFL insiders have also speculated that the playoff contenders in college football could see some of their top performers entering the draft, making it even more important for teams like the Steelers to make strategic selections to boost their team in the upcoming season.
