The Pittsburgh Steelers have navigated a whirlwind offseason, including significant player departures, key new additions, and important contract discussions. Now, with the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the team is actively engaged in preparations. These offseason developments have placed the Steelers firmly in the media spotlight, with widespread speculation about the potential transformation of their roster for the upcoming season.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan (left) and Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) sit in the franchise's draft room as they anxiously watch the board in 2023.
One of the latest rumors circulating involves a potential trade of wide receiver George Pickens, with the Dallas Cowboys being mentioned as a possible suitor. NFL Draft analyst Charles Robinson recently discussed this scenario on 93.7 The Fan.
"I think a number of teams, just texting since Jerry Jones has come out and started talking about these trades... teams are wondering if that's George Pickens," Robinson said.
The comments Robinson is referencing recently circulated after being shared online. Nick Harris, a reporter from the Star-Telegram, posted on X, drawing attention to a bold statement that had been made by Jerry Jones, the well-known general manager and owner of the Cowboys.
Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones indicating that Dallas isn’t done in the trade market and outside deals are in the works:
— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) April 22, 2025
“We’re looking at two things that could happen before or after the draft. Two pretty substantive trades. Been working on today.”
The Cowboys are reportedly in the market for a high-caliber wide receiver to complement their elite wide receiver, CeeDee Lamb, aiming to strengthen their receiving corps depth. During his segment on 93.7 The Fan, Robinson also discussed how the Cowboys, particularly Jones, reportedly do not believe the impactful wide receiver two (WR2) they seek is present in this year's draft class.
Tim Heitman / USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
The Cowboys currently hold the 12th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Following their first pick, they possess the 44th overall pick, a valuable second-round selection that the Steelers currently lack. This draft capital disparity is where a trade involving Pickens could prove beneficial for the Steelers, as Robinson suggests they could potentially acquire a significant draft pick in return for the receiver. When asked about the potential compensation the Steelers could receive for Pickens, he offered the following insights.
"Yeah, I think they could get a day two pick, yeah I think they would, I think you make that deal," Robinson responded.
The Steelers' acquisition of veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf this offseason, while bringing a valuable asset to the team, came at the cost of their 2025 second-round draft pick. This absence is significant for several reasons. Not only does it create a considerable gap between their first-round and third-round selections, but the second round is also typically rich with talent, often featuring players who could easily be considered first-round caliber. The diverse needs and skill sets across different positions often lead to highly-regarded players falling into this crucial second round.
While a day two pick includes the second and third rounds, the Steelers' current lack of a second-round selection makes it logical to assume that acquiring a pick in that crucial round would be their primary objective in a Pickens trade. Fans' opinions regarding trading Pickens is currently divided. Pickens is still playing under his rookie contract, having been drafted 52nd overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, he will soon be eligible for a contract extension, with his current deal expiring after the upcoming season. Trading Pickens now would allow the Steelers to avoid what would likely be a substantial financial commitment to him, given the escalating costs of NFL player contracts.
AP photo
Steelers' George Pickens looks on during an away game.
The Steelers Have More Then Pickens To Pay
The Steelers are dealing with a complex financial landscape with several key player contract negotiations. Metcalf costs more than just a second-round draft pick, signing him to a five-year, $150 million contract. Additionally, contract extension negotiations are underway with star edge rusher and captain TJ Watt, who is also expected to demand a large deal.
The unresolved starting quarterback situation adds another layer of potential high cost, depending on who fills that crucial role. While the Steelers have some salary cap flexibility, managing all these significant contracts simultaneously would be a considerable challenge. Acquiring draft picks offers a different approach: while these players lack NFL experience, they come with significantly lower initial salaries and the potential to develop into franchise cornerstones, a path familiar to almost every legendary player in the league.
What do you think the Steelers should do? Let us know in the comments below!
#SteelerNation
