Steelers' list of George Pickens replacements is headlined by a six-time Pro Bowler who would pair perfectly alongside DK Metcalf

Option A: Keenan Allen

The Bears made a huge move last offseason to acquire Keenan Allen, giving quarterback Caleb Williams a reliable veteran to turn to in the passing game. It was a great idea, even if it came with a costly 2024 cap hit. Ultimately, the move never quite worked out to be more than a one-year rental. While Allen led the team with seven receiving touchdowns and converted 43 first downs on 70 receptions, his connection just wasn't there with Williams. Allen had eight drops in 2024 and multiple miscues with his rookie quarterback. 

Even still, Williams and fellow teammates vouched for the veteran leader to be back in 2025, but the money didn't justify re-signing him. The Bears already committed a massive 4 year, $110 extension to DJ Moore, used a Top-10 pick to draft Rome Odunze last year, and then selected Luther Burden III in the second-round. Then, you factor in a new offense coming to town led by Ben Johnson, which aims to be younger and faster at the position. Allen still has plenty left in the tank to finish out his career elsewhere catching passes for a veteran quarterback. He’s still the same savvy, reliable player who has a knack for constantly getting open vs. man and zone coverage even at this stage of his career.

- Kole Noble, A to Z Sports Chicago

Allen is the most ideal fit to pair alongside Metcalf. He is the route-running savant that the Steelers need. Metcalf is the vertical stretch player, and Allen is the bucket getter on money downs. He should be priority numero uno for Pittsburgh. 

Option B: Gabe Davis

Lost in the shuffle that was a busy morning in the NFL, the Jacksonville Jaguars decided to part ways with Gabe Davis on Wednesday despite him signing a three-year contract last offseason. 

Davis thrived in Buffalo, just turned 26 years old, and isa  great fit in Arthur Smith's offense. Pittsburgh should be all in. 

Option C: Allen Lazard

Lazard has played his entire career with Aaron Rodgers, whether that was with the Green Bay Packers or the New York Jets. He also fits the mold of a big possession receiver that can block and create space over the middle of Arthur Smith's offense, but his connection to presumptive Steelers starter Aaron Rodgers is why he's on the list.