New Report Cites Root Cause Of George Pickens’ Frustrations During Steelers Tenure

George Pickens has looked like one of the league’s best receivers ever since he departed the Steelers.

The Dallas Cowboys acquired the star wide receiver from the Pittsburgh during an offseason trade, as you might recall. And Pickens, since taking the field in Dallas, sparked an on-field resurgence and has exceeded all expectations.

In a feature story highlighting Pickens’ turnaround, ESPN’s Todd Archer and Jeremy Fowler spoke to people employed by both the Steelers and Cowboys. And in doing so, gained insight into the root of Pickens’ frustrations in Pittsburgh.

“The stuff he couldn’t control, he had a hard time dealing with — and a quarterback’s play is not in his control,” a Steelers source told ESPN. “I think the quarterback issues (in Pittsburgh) played a part in his frustrations.”

During his first three seasons in the NFL, Pickens caught passes from Kenny Pickett and Mitchell Trubisky (2022) before Mason Rudolph join the twosome the following year (2023). His final season was spent with a past-his-prime Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, neither of whom were retained by the Steelers the following season.

“That’s where a lot of the issues from Pittsburgh stem from,” a player source told ESPN. “He didn’t have stability at quarterback.”

Prior to making the trade for Pickens, the Cowboys gained intel from the Steel City, as well. According to ESPN, Dallas decision-makers were told Pickens would be fine with the Cowboys because they have an alpha quarterback in Dak Prescott and an alpha receiver running mate in CeeDee Lamb.

It seems that way.

Pickens already has compiled career highs in catches (73), yards (1,142) and touchdowns (eight). He ranks third in the NFL in receiving yards and third in touchdowns through 12 games.