On May 7, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, a significant move for both teams. The trade, as reported by Spotrac, saw Pittsburgh send Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick to Dallas in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. The move is the culmination of a tumultuous offseason for Pickens, whose time with the Steelers was marked by immense talent, inconsistent production and repeated maturity issues.
The trade, prompted by Pittsburgh’s acquisition of DK Metcalf and Pickens’ contract situation, has sparked debate about his future and the Steelers’ offensive strategy. His athleticism and highlight-reel catches, such as a one-handed grab against Cleveland in 2022, showcased All-Pro potential. In three seasons, he collected 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and 12 touchdowns, including a standout 2023 season where he led the league with 18.1 yards per reception, totaling 1,140 yards and five touchdowns.
Reports of immaturity, including arriving late for a Christmas Day 2024 game against Kansas City, clashed with the Steelers’ disciplined culture. His social media activity, such as a 2023 Instagram post saying “set me free” after a poor performance, fueled the perception of isolation. An incident in 2024 against Indianapolis when he lacked effort on the block drew criticism from coach Mike Tomlin, who publicly demanded improvement. Former All-Pro Chad Johnson mentored Pickens, urging him to address these issues, but repeated incidents, such as a physical altercation with Washington’s Mike Sainristil in 2024, kept him in the headlines for the wrong reasons.
The Steelers’ acquisition of DK Metcalf, who was signed to a five-year, $150 million deal, signaled a shift in their offensive hierarchy.
Pittsburgh’s unsuccessful effort to trade Pickens during the 2025 NFL Draft, combined with their interest in Aaron Rodgers and dependence on rookie quarterback Will Howard, indicated that Pickens was no longer essential. For Dallas, the 24-year-old brings significant potential, with his 15.3 yards per catch in 2024 and field-stretching ability complementing Dak Prescott’s deep-passing strengths.
Unlike another rumored target, Amari Cooper, Pickens’ youth and contract affordability make him a long-term investment, though his next deal will be expensive. The Cowboys will have to deal with his emotional instability, but a fresh start with Lamb could unleash his potential, creating a formidable receiver duo. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh receives draft capital to address the needs of Metcalf and their uncertain quarterback situation, with Mason Rudolph or Rodgers being potential 2025 starters.
This trade reflects Pittsburgh’s pragmatic approach to a talented but polarizing player. While Pickens’ departure ends a dramatic chapter, his ability to dominate downfield could haunt the Steelers if he matures in Dallas. For now, both teams are betting on their respective visions—Pittsburgh on stability and Dallas on untapped potential.