Steelers Leader Delivers Clear Message After George Pickens Trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers last week decided to trade one of their top offensive playmakers in George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys for draft capital.

On paper, the Steelers offense is worse off without Pickens in the mix, but it’s clear the talented wide receiver, who caused his share of headaches, had worn out his welcome in Pittsburgh.

The trade of Pickens certainly comes with valid concerns about Pittsburgh’s offense. The Steelers are now without a strong No. 2 wideout to pair with DK Metcalf, not to mention they still don’t have a starting-caliber quarterback on the roster with Aaron Rodgers still dragging his feet over a decision.

But for any fans who worry about the state of the Steelers in mid-May, veteran defensive lineman Cameron Heyward had a clear message for them on his “Not Just Football with Cam Heyward” podcast.

“I think the main thing is, and this is a PSA for all Steeler fans: don’t panic, stay patient, we’ll get to work,” Heyward said. “I think sometimes we can jump off the ship and think the ship is sinking. We got work to do. And whoever won the offseason isn’t going to win the regular season, is not going to win the Super Bowl. So, I’m locked in on that, locked in on having a good year and I hope my teammates are too.”

Heyward looks for Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson to step up with Pickens no longer commanding targets while also hoping the Steelers funnel a little more of the offense through standout tight end Pat Freiermuth.

Heyward would have liked to have seen the combo of Metcalf and Pickens out on the field for the Steelers, but he’s moving forward.

“Was I surprised (of the trade)? Yeah, but the game is the game,” Heyward said. “I know it benefits both teams. We get another third-round pick. They get a wide receiver to go along with CeeDee Lamb. Would I have liked to see George and DK play together? Yeah, but hopefully there’s something in the works.”