After a breakout 2023 season, George Pickens’ surprising exit from the Steelers caught many fans off guard. The talented second-round wide receiver, who showcased impressive size and explosive plays, seemed destined to become Pittsburgh’s WR1 for years. Yet, as the Steelers prepared their roster for 2025, they quietly traded Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a minor value swap.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan explained the motivations behind the move during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show:
We felt it was time for a fresh start,
and
It made sense for both of us.
The GM declined to offer further details, but the trade appears to stem from more than just Pickens’ on-field stats, hinting at underlying team dynamics.
Challenges Beyond Talent Influence Trade Decision
Though Pickens amassed nearly 2,900 receiving yards over three seasons, reports from NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Jeremy Fowler revealed tension between Pickens and the Steelers’ coaching staff. Concerns surfaced about his maturity, consistency in practice, and commitment to the team’s system. In an organization that values culture and discipline deeply, such issues can prompt rapid action.
With the departure of Pickens, Pittsburgh moved quickly to bolster their offense, acquiring D.K. Metcalf, known for his physical prowess and playoff experience. Metcalf’s arrival represents more than filling a roster spot; it signals a new offensive identity for the Steelers.
On the defensive side, Pittsburgh remained equally aggressive. Trades for cornerback Jalen Ramsey and a record-setting contract extension for linebacker T.J. Watt emphasize the franchise’s commitment to a bold rebuilding effort. Khan emphasized Watt’s significance to the team by stating,
It was important for us that T.J. be a one-helmet Hall of Famer,
and added,
Hopefully, there’s many more years to go.
Rebuilding Culture While Pursuing Postseason Success
The Steelers have not won a playoff game since 2017, creating pressure to inject new energy and leadership into the roster. This transformative period reflects the organization’s willingness to make tough decisions, such as parting with promising talent like Pickens, to reset team chemistry and foster long-term success.
For Pickens, joining the Cowboys offers a fresh opportunity to demonstrate his value at the highest level. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh’s strategy of adding established players like Metcalf, Ramsey, and retaining Watt represents a calculated bet that restructuring will lead to improved results.
Ultimately, the success of this overhaul will hinge not only on individual performances but also on the Steelers’ ability to rebuild the sense of unity and discipline that has traditionally defined this storied franchise.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did George Pickens unfollow Steelers?
A. George Pickens has stopped following the Steelers on Instagram. This decision comes as he approaches the last year of his rookie contract, which he signed in 2022 after being drafted in the second round.
Q. How fast can George Pickens run?
A. At the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, George Pickens, a wide receiver for the Georgia Bulldogs, completed the 40-yard dash in 4.47 seconds.
Q. How fast is George Pickens?
A. According to Next Gen Stats, George Pickens, a Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver, hit a top speed of 21.54 miles per hour during his 86-yard touchdown run.