The Pittsburgh Steelers have traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, with Pittsburgh also receiving a 2027 sixth-round pick. This move comes just two months after the Steelers acquired star receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, signaling a significant shift in the team’s receiving corps.(The US Sun)
A Volatile Talent
Pickens, 24, had shown flashes of brilliance during his three seasons with the Steelers, amassing 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and 12 touchdowns. In the 2024 season, he recorded 59 catches for 900 yards and three touchdowns across 14 games. However, his tenure in Pittsburgh was also marked by disciplinary issues, including unsportsmanlike penalties and public admonishments from head coach Mike Tomlin to “grow up” . These concerns led to questions about his future with the team.(Reuters, The US Sun)
The DK Metcalf Acquisition
In March, the Steelers signed DK Metcalf to a four-year, $132 million contract, aiming to bolster their receiving corps. The acquisition of Metcalf, a proven star, provided the Steelers with a reliable target and potentially reduced the team’s reliance on Pickens. This move may have influenced the decision to trade Pickens, as the team now had a more stable receiving option.(Reuters)
Pickens’ Departure
Despite the team’s efforts to integrate Pickens into their plans, signs of discontent were evident. Pickens unfollowed the Steelers on social media and expressed frustration with the team’s direction. The trade to the Cowboys offers Pickens a fresh start and an opportunity to contribute alongside star receiver CeeDee Lamb
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