The Pittsburgh Steelers are no strangers to trading away dramatic wide receivers. Antonio Brown, Chase Claypool, and Diontae Johnson ultimately positioned themselves as trade casualties once their baggage outweighed their on-field production.
The question that should be on the minds of all Steelers fans is this: Is WR George Pickens setting himself up for the same fate in 2025?
Pickens has undoubtedly produced his most dramatic season yet in 2024, though it seemed as if the Steelers were initially willing to tolerate his immaturity. His rookie contract extends only through 2025, and his inconsistency on the field this season may have the Steelers ready to move on.
From fumbling away the Colts game to practically giving up during the Hail Mary attempt against the Browns, to causing an interception by running the wrong route in Week 17, and now his Week 18 performance, which saw Pickens drop three balls and catch one pass on six targets for zero yards, it may be time to find a potential trade partner next offseason.
A night to forget for George Pickens:
1 Rec
6 Targets
3 Drops
0 Rec Yards pic.twitter.com/EEk3G48rl4— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) January 5, 2025
Will Pickens rebound in the playoffs? And if he does, will it be enough to make up for his on- and off-field drama in 2024?
