Steelers Could Shock the NFL by Trading George Pickens During Draft Weekend if Right Offer Emerges — Young Star WR Might Be Deemed Expendable Amid Cap Crunch Following D.K. Metcalf’s $132M Deal
Pittsburgh, PA — As the 2025 NFL Draft looms, a surprising storyline is gaining traction in Pittsburgh: the potential trade of rising star wide receiver George Pickens.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, while the Steelers aren’t actively shopping Pickens, the former second-round pick could be “deemed expendable” if the right trade offer surfaces during draft weekend. The news has sent ripples across the league and left Steelers Nation holding its breath.
A Budding Star in Pittsburgh
Pickens, 24, is entering the final year of his rookie contract — a 4-year, $6.752 million deal signed after being drafted 52nd overall in 2022. In 2024, he delivered a solid performance, catching 59 passes for 900 yards and 3 touchdowns in just 14 games. Known for his acrobatic catches, physical playstyle, and downfield explosiveness, Pickens has quickly become a fan favorite and one of the most electric young receivers in the league.
Why Would the Steelers Even Consider Trading Him?
The Steelers are facing a classic NFL dilemma: cap management versus talent retention.
Just days ago, Pittsburgh finalized a massive 4-year, $132 million contract with star wideout D.K. Metcalf, acquired earlier this offseason to bring a new level of physicality and veteran leadership to the offense. But while Metcalf’s arrival strengthens the receiving corps, it also raises an important question: Can the Steelers afford to pay two top-tier wideouts?
Given the looming reality of Pickens’ next contract — which could easily command $20+ million per year in today’s wide receiver market — Pittsburgh may opt to cash in on his value now, rather than risk losing him for nothing next offseason.
The Draft Day Angle
This year’s draft class is stacked with wide receiver talent, including names like Malik Nabers, Rome Odunze, and Xavier Worthy, all of whom could be available when the Steelers are on the clock. Trading Pickens could not only free up future cap space but also net a valuable draft pick or two that helps fill other roster needs.
Several receiver-needy teams — including the New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears — could be intrigued by the idea of adding a 24-year-old playmaker with proven production and elite upside.
What This Means for Pittsburgh’s Offense
The potential departure of Pickens would certainly alter the Steelers’ offensive identity. While Metcalf brings elite athleticism and red-zone prowess, Pickens has been the emotional sparkplug and deep threat who stretches defenses and makes the impossible look routine.
Still, Pittsburgh’s front office — led by GM Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin — has never shied away from bold moves, especially if they believe it aligns with the long-term vision of the franchise.
Pickens’ Value and Market Demand
Pickens is under team control for one more year at a cap-friendly number, making him a highly attractive trade target. His age, talent, and ascending trajectory place him in a tier of receivers that could easily command a second-round pick or more, depending on the market.
And with several teams in win-now mode, it’s entirely possible that Pittsburgh receives an offer too tempting to pass up.
What’s Next?
As the draft nears, keep an eye on Pittsburgh. If a team with a late first- or early second-round pick comes knocking, George Pickens could be wearing a new jersey before the weekend is over.
For now, though, he remains a Steeler — and perhaps the most intriguing name to watch during what’s shaping up to be a wild 2025 NFL Draft.
