A recent commentary from an NFL Insider indicates that the Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t made any significant moves regarding their star receiver, George Pickens.
Trade rumors surrounding Pickens have persisted throughout the offseason. Analyst James Palmer mentioned that the Steelers are navigating the upcoming trade deadlines while eyeing the quarterback-heavy 2026 NFL Draft.
Palmer expressed skepticism about a Pickens trade materializing before the draft, noting the speculation regarding his future in Pittsburgh. Many, including Palmer, believe that various factors suggest his time with the Steelers may be limited. It seems that teams often struggle to manage two high-priced receivers effectively.
“There haven’t been any talks behind the scenes about trading George Pickens,” Palmer stated, reflecting on the challenges both the team and Pickens faced last season.
Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed earlier incidents, including Pickens being late for the team’s Christmas Day loss, which painted a complicated picture of the young talent’s relationship with the coaching staff throughout the year.
While he was not traded during the recent NFL Draft, speculation continues. Palmer made it clear that the dynamics surrounding Pickens have not improved.
If the Steelers are considering adding quarterback Aaron Rodgers, they might delay any potential trade in hopes that a future Hall of Famer could elevate Pickens’ value.
Rodgers has previously trained with newly signed DK Metcalf, and the Steelers’ decision not to draft a quarterback this year hints at the expectation that they might rely on him in 2025.
Entering the final year of his rookie contract after being drafted 52nd overall in 2022, Pickens remains a sought-after player, especially given his impressive stats—over 800 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons despite the team’s quarterback instability. In 2024, for instance, he tallied 900 yards across 59 receptions.
