NFL Rumors: How George Pickens’ Time With Steelers Is Viewed

There doesn’t seem to be optimism for George Pickens’ future with the Steelers.

According to multiple reports, Pittsburgh listened to trade calls for Pickens. The Steelers didn’t draft a wide receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft, but there was still concern that the 24-year-old remains in the final year of his rookie deal without a sign of extension coming.

NFL insider James Palmer painted a bleak picture of Pickens’ outlook in Pittsburgh last week.

“His time in Pittsburgh, in a lot of people’s minds, is limited,” Palmer said on Bleacher Report, per Steelers Depot. “It has not gone well behind the scenes at all between George Pickens and the Pittsburgh Steelers and everybody involved. And this is leading up to, could he play for them in 2025? Certainly would. Would he be departing after the season? Yes, in a lot of people’s minds.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin can be trusted to handle any potential disruption Pickens could create in the locker room. However, the front office might try to acquire assets for the wide receiver if he decides to walk after the 2025 season.

The trade rumors will continue to persist until either side commits to the other long term, and it could escalate if the Steelers don’t have a real option at quarterback for the season.