The Pittsburgh Steelers face a challenging situation at wide receiver in 2025. While most agree changes are necessary, the question remains whether they should simply find a better complement to George Pickens or completely revamp the receiving corps.
NFL.com writer Adam Rank suggested the latter on February 21, proposing that the Steelers trade Pickens while his value is still high. He linked the Green Bay Packers as a potential trade partner, arguing that Pickens could bring back significant assets in return.
“Pickens is another young receiver who could command a solid trade return from a team in need of a true No. 1 pass-catcher,” Rank wrote, specifically recommending that the Steelers reach out to Green Bay.
He acknowledged Pickens’ inconsistency but pointed out that Pittsburgh’s revolving door at quarterback has contributed to his uneven production. Rank also noted that pairing Pickens with Jordan Love could be a major boost for Matt LaFleur’s offense in Green Bay.
This suggestion aligns with comments made by Packers running back Josh Jacobs, who recently stated that Green Bay lacks a true number-one receiver. That need became even more pressing after Christian Watson suffered a long-term injury.
Could Pickens be the solution?
Rank also argued that trading Pickens would allow the Steelers to avoid a tough contract negotiation when his deal expires after the 2025 season. He concluded by noting that Pittsburgh has a history of moving on from wide receivers before financial or other complications arise.
Steelers Would Have to Replace George Pickens in NFL Free Agency & the Draft
If the Steelers choose to move on from George Pickens as Adam Rank suggested, they would likely need to add two wide receivers—either through free agency, the draft, or both. While this approach may seem counterproductive, Pittsburgh might opt for it if they believe Pickens’ attitude and inconsistency have become too much to manage.
Trading Pickens would also reset the financial clock, allowing them to draft his replacement on a rookie contract.
Regardless of Pickens’ future, the Steelers have been linked to wide receivers in the first round throughout the offseason. Potential targets include Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, Texas’ Matthew Golden, and Missouri’s Luther Burden III.
Additionally, Pittsburgh has been mentioned as a possible landing spot for veteran free agents such as Chris Godwin, Keenan Allen, Darius Slayton, and DeAndre Hopkins.
A combination of a first-round talent like Egbuka and a proven veteran like Godwin could help replace Pickens’ production while reducing potential off-field concerns—especially if second-year receiver Roman Wilson continues to develop.
At the very least, this presents another option for the Steelers to consider as they navigate free agency and the offseason.
Steelers Beat Reporter Says Pittsburgh Will Most Likely Let George Pickens Play out Rookie Contract
In a February 19 mailbag post on X, veteran Steelers beat reporter Mark Kaboly shared his thoughts on George Pickens’ future when asked about the most likely outcome.
“Do you think George Pickens gets traded, extended, or plays out his last year?” a fan inquired.
Kaboly responded, “The betting favorite right now is letting him play out his final year. I know I wouldn’t entertain trading him unless I found a legit No. 1 in free agency, and that might be difficult to pull off considering the receiver market compared to what they have in Pickens. I definitely think it would be a risk to sign him long term, so that’s last on my list.”
While Kaboly expects the Steelers to keep Pickens for the 2025 season, he also views a trade as more likely than an extension. As the offseason unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Pittsburgh handles the situation.