Behind-the Scenes Rigidity Between George Pickens, Steelers Might Ignite Big Offseason Transfer

There have been accounts of accelerating tensions between Pickens and the teaching employees of the Steelers. Starting with skipping group conferences to not following the group on Instagram throughout the draft, Pickens has been ringing alarms throughout the group.

Behind-the-Scenes Tensions Around Pickens

According to The New York Post, head coach Mike Tomlin formally acknowledged that Pickens was late to the group’s Christmas Day recreation in 2024. Although the receiver’s on-field skill just isn’t in query, his off-field conduct has created severe concern within the Steelers’ entrance workplace.

Would Aaron Rodgers Upend the Narrative?

Palmer wasn’t shy about X (previously Twitter), stating: “Steelers give up a 2nd for D.K. Metcalf – DK signs a massive contract — Pickens is entering the final year of rookie contract – Pickens time with the Steelers has been, politely … an adventure — Steelers have been doing work on WRs.”

Fanning the rumors, free-agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been seen coaching with Metcalf at UCLA, fueling hypothesis that the Steelers may be on the verge of signing the longer term Hall of Famer.

The squad did not choose a quarterback this season, implying that Rodgers might be the deliberate starter for 2025. If the Steelers had been to get him, his presence would enhance Pickens’ commerce worth big-time, notably if the 2 construct on-field chemistry early within the marketing campaign.

Pickens Still Holds Major Value on the Market

Despite the theatrics, Pickens’ value continues to be excessive. The 24-year-old has recorded no less than 800 receiving yards in every of his first three years, all whereas contending with spotty quarterback play. In 2024, he caught 59 passes for 900 yards, once more demonstrating his deep-threat skill.

Palmer instructed USA Today that he wasn’t bought on the Steelers buying and selling Pickens throughout the 2025 NFL draft. He clarified that paying “two high-priced receivers seldom works out for teams.”

Now, within the final 12 months of his rookie deal, Pickens may be a steal for a contending group that wants a stable receiver on a team-friendly contract.

Should the Steelers Find a Replacement For Pickens

If the Steelers are certainly severe about rebuilding their roster, letting go of Pickens may be a necessity. Having Metcalf in-house and a possible signing of Rodgers coming down the pipeline, Pittsburgh appears set to maneuver on.

But if Pickens opens robust in 2025, his worth in commerce might skyrocket, making subsequent season one which decides the longer term for each participant and group.

The solely positive factor now? The Steelers’ receiver corps is way from being settled.