The Steelers anticipated they might trade George Pickens for “meaning to everyone,” but it’s uncertain if Pickens shares that view.
Recently, a screenshot appeared on X showing Pickens apparently criticizing the Steelers, stating, “They are the cheapest organizations. They don’t stack up year by year. [expletive] Time is too much lmao.”
Yet, Pickens has denied these comments.
“Literally on a plane. No service,” he clarified on his Instagram Story. “Just landed and lied straight from the fans in Pitt. Stop trying to make a story. I’m happy with everything Steel City did for me.”
He ended his message with a nod to Mother’s Day, saying, “Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers out there.”
It’s possible that he posted a comment that he later deleted, but no credible link exists to substantiate the supposed remarks.
On the topic of social media comments, Pickens may find himself part of a pattern within Pittsburgh’s recent drafts.
Notably, Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, and Juju Smith-Schuster all had successful tenures with the Steelers before departing prior to contract renewals.
Now, Pickens appears to be experiencing a similar fate.
While he hasn’t secured an extension, it’s noteworthy that DK Metcalf recently signed a substantial five-year, $150 million deal after a stint in Pittsburgh.
Metcalf has become one of the elite receivers in the NFL, accumulating over 900 yards each season throughout his seven-year career.
In his three NFL seasons, after being selected in the second round (52nd overall), Pickens has also demonstrated productivity, recording 801 yards in his rookie year, 1,140 in his second, and 900 in just 14 games this past season.
However, Pickens’ talent has sometimes created challenges for the Steelers.
He faced penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct and was frequently involved in altercations, not to mention arriving late to games.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin suggested that receivers need to “grow,” implying there’s still room for Pickens to mature.
These issues, combined with the upcoming contract extension, likely influenced Pittsburgh’s decision to trade Pickens to the Cowboys in exchange for sixth-round picks in 2027, as well as third and fifth-round picks in 2026 and 2027, respectively.
Now, Pickens finds himself in the last year of his rookie contract.
