The idea of trading George Pickens during the 2025 NFL Draft made other teams chuckle. Reports from The Athletic reveal that many teams found the notion amusing, as they struggled to see the benefits of bringing him into their ranks.
This talk gained speed right after Pittsburgh traded Pickens to the Cowboys for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. The Steelers, lacking a second-round selection after trading it for DK Metcalf, found little interest in Pickens.
Before the trade, suspicions swirled that Pickens might be on his way out. Early in December, he arrived late to a game against the Chiefs, and in January, he had some heated exchanges with fans. He also faced criticism for unsportsmanlike behavior during a match against the Bengals, prompting coach Mike Tomlin to advise him to “grow up.”
As rumors intensified, fans noticed he even stopped following the team on social media. Now, entering the last year of his rookie contract, Pickens aims to prove himself in Dallas. He wants to show everyone he’s a valuable player, according to team insider Clarence Hill Jr.
Last season, Pickens had 59 catches for 900 yards and three touchdowns, and his earlier season boasted even better stats with 63 catches for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns. Now, he’s ready to make his mark alongside quarterback Dak Prescott.
Pittsburgh now has its own challenges, particularly in sorting out its quarterback situation. While there’s been chatter about Aaron Rodgers considering a move to the Steelers, he remains noncommittal due to personal matters. Meanwhile, with Justin Fields and Russell Wilson leaving in free agency, the team re-signed backup Mason Rudolph and drafted Will Howard from Ohio State in the sixth round.
This shift in roster dynamics highlights the ongoing evolution of the NFL, where teams constantly adapt to changes. As Pickens seeks to establish himself in Dallas, the Steelers are focused on rebuilding and making strategic moves for the future.
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