Steelers Have New Information About Their Future With George Pickens Exposed

Pittsburgh Steelers star wide receiver, George Pickens has become a fan favorite in the Steel City. His jaw-dropping catches and undeniable talent have electrified Steeler Nation since he joined the team. However, Pickens’ time in Pittsburgh hasn’t been without controversy. Concerns over his attitude and effort have lingered throughout his three seasons, often overshadowing his immense potential. These issues came to the forefront during the Steelers' 44-38 win over the Cincinnati Bengals when Pickens picked up taunting and unsportsmanlike conduct flags, frustrating fans and coaches.

As Pickens nears the end of his rookie deal, questions about his long-term future with the Steelers loom large. Pittsburgh has a history of letting star wide receivers go when their behavior becomes a distraction, leaving many to wonder if Pickens will follow a similar path. While his talent is undeniable, the Steelers value discipline and team-first mentality, and Pickens’ occasional lapses in judgment have raised eyebrows within the organization. These incidents, combined with the team's philosophy, have sparked debate over whether the Steelers will extend him or move in another direction when the time comes.

Steelers insider Gerry Dulac weighed in on the situation Wednesday, offering insight into the team’s perspective on Pickens’ future. Dulac noted that while the Steelers recognize his talent, they are wary of committing to a player whose actions could harm the team’s culture and performance. Dulac even called it a big assumption to think Pickens gets a second contract anytime soon.

"Well, they will likely let Dan Moore and James Daniels go in free agency, so that will save quite a few pennies," Dulac said. "But I don't think you will see any Pickens extension handed out before the 2025 season."

That doesn’t mean Pittsburgh won’t work out a deal to keep Pickens in the Steel City. However, according to what Dulac has heard and observed, the Steelers aren’t in any rush to secure Pickens as part of their long-term plans. 

Dulac also shared insight into comments from a Steelers coach, shedding light on the team’s philosophy regarding so-called "diva" wide receivers and the balance between retaining talent and moving on from potential distractions.

"I will tell you what a coach once told me -- when the production outweighs the aggravation, you keep him," Dulac said. "When the aggravation outweighs the production, you get rid of them."

That’s an interesting perspective, and while it might seem obvious, hearing it directly from a coach provides valuable insight into the team’s mindset. The Steelers’ most recent example of moving on from a troubled wide receiver was Diontae Johnson, who was traded early in the 2024 offseason.

The organization clearly decided that his aggravations outweighed his contributions, and in hindsight, it looks like a brilliant move. Donte Jackson has been a standout addition to Pittsburgh’s secondary, while Johnson has struggled to make an impact with the Baltimore Ravens.

Steelers' George Pickens Must Mature Quickly

Steelers fans remain hopeful that Pickens can mature and secure a long-term future in Pittsburgh. However, Dulac believes the team won’t make that commitment until absolutely necessary, which is already a telling sign. 

For Pickens, being surrounded by strong leadership offers an opportunity to grow. If he can focus on being a team-first player and avoid unnecessary distractions, he has the potential to become one of the greatest and highest-paid wide receivers in Steelers history.

Ultimately, the ball is in Pickens' court. His talent is undeniable, but the Steelers have made it clear that production alone won’t guarantee a future in Pittsburgh. With the right mindset and a commitment to the team, Pickens could cement himself as a cornerstone of the franchise.

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