Steelers Pickens Trade Request Considered?

The Pittsburgh Steelers trading for Seattle Seahawks receiver DK Metcalf will have both short- and long-term consequences. For now, the Steelers have one of the league’s most potent receiving duos in the league, with more downfield dominance than virtually anyone else.

The move also complicates Pittsburgh’s plans at the position. Pickens is entering a contract year, and the two receivers don’t have complementary skill sets. Both are big, fast, and strong while doing their best work downfield.

With Metcalf entering the room as its presumed top target, Pickens stands to get fewer targets in a pivotal season. For a target with a history of on-field antics, frustration could take hold.

James Palmer’s recent report for Bleacher Report reveals the Steelers receiver could be unhappy after the Metcalf trade.

“There’s a lot of rumors about [a trade],” Palmer said. “And understandable because his time in Pittsburgh is limited in a lot of people’s minds, mine included.”

Pickens was the subject of trade rumors throughout the offseason, and it remains a (albeit unlikely) possibility. 

In fact, there is another national report that had Pickens considering a trade request.

The Steelers are at their best with Pickens and Metcalf threatening defenses on the boundary, pushing trade conversations to the trade deadline if necessary.

If nothing else, the Metcalf deal makes a long-term stint in Pittsburgh less likely for Pickens.

“You don’t make the trade for DK Metcalf, giving [the Seahawks] a second [if you plan to keep Pickens]. It has not run well behind the scenes at all between George Pickens, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and everybody involved... could he play for them in 2025? He certainly could. Would he be departing after the season? Yes, in a lot of people’s minds.”

Steelers fans have plenty to be excited for in 2025. But with no viable starting quarterback, a potentially aggrieved star, and the pressure of going another season without a playoff win makes Pittsburgh’s season flammable.

Subsequently, all eyes will be on Pickens as he embarks on the most important season of his young career. Capitalizing on the opportunities Metcalf’s gravity provides could set him apart, even with a lower target share.