The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be on the verge of a major roster shakeup, as wide receiver George Pickens is reportedly on the trade block ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, according to FOX Sports. With Pickens now eligible for an extension and DK Metcalf already carrying a significant contract, Pittsburgh may be looking to avoid sinking major money into two wideouts — a move that doesn’t fit their typical financial strategy.
“Pittsburgh has taken and made calls on the talented WR, who’s now extension-eligible,” wrote Jordan Schultz. “After paying Metcalf, league sources are skeptical the Steelers will pay two receivers.” That skepticism is echoed by at least one AFC GM, who added, “It’s just not in their DNA to spend that much on two wideouts. Pickens is more available than people think. Green Bay’s been serious, and they’re not the only ones.”
The timing is significant, with the NFL Draft beginning Thursday and the Steelers holding the 21st overall pick. A trade involving Pickens could shake up the entire first round depending on the return Pittsburgh seeks. The team is also believed to be targeting a quarterback in the draft and has shown interest in Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, a vocal supporter of both Pickens and Metcalf, and Ohio State’s Will Howard.
Pittsburgh’s offense has been in flux for the past year. The Steelers struggled to generate consistent scoring throughout the 2024 season and made little impact in the playoffs. Then came more upheaval this offseason, with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields leaving for new teams in New York. Mason Rudolph is back in the fold, but the team clearly needs a long-term solution under center.
Trading Pickens would not only signal a new offensive direction — it would also open a big hole at wide receiver. Despite inconsistent quarterback play, Pickens has been productive in his first two NFL seasons, tallying over 1,900 receiving yards combined and showing flashes of big-play ability. His departure would leave a major void, especially if Pittsburgh is breaking in a rookie QB in 2025.
With interest heating up from teams like the Green Bay Packers and potentially others, the next few days could prove pivotal. If Pickens is dealt, it may be part of a broader plan to reset the offense, recoup draft capital, and build around a young quarterback — a move that could either revitalize or further frustrate a fanbase desperate for answers.
