Analyst Reveals Potential George Pickens Trade Destinations
Just one season remains on George Pickens’ rookie contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mike Tomlin’s team imported DK Metcalf in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks last month, clouding Pickens’ future in black and gold. The Steelers could clear it up sooner than later by shipping Pickens off, but to where?
Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio theorized a few possible trade partners during a Wednesday appearance on 93.7 The Fan’s “The PM Team.” First, he explained the type of situation that would be required to get the most out of the sometimes-disgruntled Pickens.
“It would have to be somebody with a head coach that can do a better job controlling him and speaking to his better angels than Mike Tomlin has,” Florio said. “How long is the list?”
Florio’s first option is one Steelers fans would likely groan about. Since 2022, it has fielded receiving retreads in DeAndre Hopkins, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Marquez Valdez-Scantling. Pickens would arguably be the AFC team’s highest-potential wideout import, and one that could help it remain a perennial Super Bowl contender.
“One guy, I think, potentially would be considered,” Florio said. “And I don’t think they have a need this year, and that’s the Chiefs. They’ve got Rashee Rice, they’ve got Xavier Worthy. I don’t know that George Pickens would fit there, but Andy Reid is one of the guys who’s done a good job of getting guys to behave and getting guys to mature.”
George Pickens has had at least 800 receiving yards in each of his three professional seasons. He had 1,140 in 2023, leading the league with 18.1 yards per grab. His three touchdown receptions in 2024 were a career low.
If not with Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City, could Pickens fit elsewhere? Maybe alongside Pete Carroll and the Las Vegas Raiders? Would Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys add to their annual circus?
“I could see somebody becoming infatuated with the talent,” Florio said.