1 Simple Word From Reporter Gives Steelers Fans An Idea Of George Pickens' Future Status With Team

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an interesting trend going on when it comes to the wide receiver position for roughly 15 years. The team is excellent at bringing in talent, but several star pass-catchers have had the organization part ways with them one way or another. The most recent example of troublesome behavior coming from a wideout is that of George Pickens. No one can seem to get through to him and the 2022 second-round pick hasn't shown that he has matured much since being drafted. This presents a unique situation for the team's front office.

Pittsburgh is typically unwilling to give pay raises to individuals that are known for causing issues in the locker room. Pickens is entering his fourth and final year of his rookie deal in 2025, and will likely be looking to sign an extension in the offseason. The issue with that fact is simple: the Steelers might not see him to be worth the headache in the long-term future.

That has had fans theorizing about potential trade options for the extremely talented pass-catcher. It might be a hard sell due to his behavior, but overall, Pittsburgh could get some significant draft capital for him. Due to how gifted he is when it comes to football, some may be holding out hope that Head Coach Mike Tomlin, or anyone in the organization for that matter, can get through to Pickens.

In a fan chat on Wednesday, team insider Gerry Dulac was asked about Pickens and if there was a possibility for someone to get through to him and help him mature. Dulac's answer wasn't long.

"Nope," Dulac wrote.

Some have pushed back against the notion that the Steelers should trade the wide receiver sooner rather than later, but it's hard to ignore all of the negatives that comes along with him being on the roster. For the long-term future, it's probably better not to give him a boatload of money.

Dulac being close to the organization and truly believing that no one can help Pickens is extremely telling. That one-word answer should provide some context about what the insider thinks the future looks like for the pass-catcher. If that wasn't enough, he mentioned that nothing is going to happen immediately, but hinted that he expects Pickens to have a new home in the near future.

"I'm not going to tell you it's imminent or anything like that. But I'd hold off buying his jersey," Dulac stated.

Pickens had 59 catches for 900 and three touchdowns in 2024, while only playing in 14 games. He has a very special talent, but sometimes the risk isn't worth the reward. His actions in the locker room, on the sideline and overall demeanor might not be what is best for a team desperate to change the culture up a bit. It's very possible that fans have seen Pickens play his last down for the black and gold.

Steelers' Free Agency Moves Could Certainly Determine Pickens' Future

It would not be in the least bit surprising if Pittsburgh decides to sign one of the top free agent wide receivers, or potentially try to trade for a formidable one. As an insurance policy, the front office can always hold onto Pickens until the receiving corps is more solidified, and then trade him. It might get a little sticky if enough moves are not made and the disgruntled wideout decides to hold out in training camp as he awaits a new contract.

Do you think the Steelers need to move on from Pickens? Let us know in the comments below!

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