Steelers Have Revealing Information About Future With George Pickens Leaked

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a significant decision regarding their wide receiver position. In the 2022 NFL Draft, they selected George Pickens in the second round, a player widely regarded as one of the most talented receivers in that class. However, concerns about his attitude, effort, and maturity caused him to fall to Round 2. 

Over the course of his first three seasons, Pickens has played in a struggling offensive system with inconsistent quarterback play. Despite these challenges, he has remained productive. His value was especially evident in 2024 when a hamstring injury sidelined him for three games. 

Now, with Pickens' rookie deal set to expire after the 2025 season, the Steelers face a critical decision. Historically, the team has not hesitated to move on from problematic wide receivers, and it's unclear where Pickens fits into that narrative. Some fans view him as a fiercely competitive player who despises losing, while others believe his presence could be detrimental to the locker room.

Pickens is likely to demand a substantial contract, leaving many Steelers fans questioning whether he is deserving or trustworthy enough to warrant that kind of investment. As a result, many fans are calling for a trade if the team doesn't plan to extend him, hoping to at least get value in return for his talents. 

On Monday, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly appeared on 93.7 The Fan, shedding light on some revealing details about Pickens' future in Pittsburgh.

"I think [Pickens] is almost 100% now," Kaboly said. "He is darn close to 100%. You just add that number two whoever that is if it’s Deebo [Samuel], if it’s [Christian] Kirk, or whoever. You throw Deebo or Calvin Austin in there and draft a guy. Now you have a decent room."

Kaboly made it clear that trading Pickens before the 2025 season is unlikely. He believes the Steelers will focus on strengthening their wide receiver room by adding an upgrade at wide receiver two—someone who can truly complement Pickens. 

This strategy would give the team more flexibility, allowing them to make a more informed decision about Pickens' future after the 2025 season without feeling desperate.

"You wanna be set up that if he leaves next year, you are not devastated," Kaboly said. "I would love to have Keenan Allen as that number two guy. He is probably $10 million a year. Forget about this mentoring George. Nobody is mentoring George. It’s not happening."

Kaboly shared that, personally, he would prefer a veteran wide receiver like Keenan Allen—who is set to turn 33, but has been a six-time Pro Bowler. Despite Allen's age, Kaboly isn't looking for him to mentor Pickens; rather, he wants him for his ability to produce. In the 2024 season, Allen posted 70 catches for 744 yards and seven touchdowns, showcasing that he can still perform at a high level.

Steelers Are Uncertain About George Pickens' Future Past 2025

Kaboly also offered more insight into Pickens' future. After the 2025 season, Pickens will be a free agent. Based on what he's heard, Kaboly believes the Steelers are uncertain about which direction they will take with him. The 2025 season will be crucial in determining Pickens' long-term future in Pittsburgh. However, it does seem likely that Pickens will remain with the Steelers at least through 2025.

Kaboly also expressed doubt that anyone would come in to mentor Pickens. The young receiver is a unique character who has had multiple stories surface about his issues with timeliness. Pickens is a fascinating case—his talent is undeniable, but some analysts question whether he has the mental fortitude to be a true wide receiver one in the NFL. Others, however, believe he is a star and a fiercely competitive player who despises losing. Steelers fans will learn a lot more about Pickens in the 2025 season.

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