Steelers GM Reveals Shocking Truth Behind George Pickens Trade Decision

Sometimes, a trade sneaks up on you like a late fourth-quarter interception — unexpected, game-changing, and full of questions. Take George Pickens: the Pittsburgh Steelers weren’t exactly on the hunt to move their talented, if at times tempestuous, wide receiver. But then the Dallas Cowboys dangled a deal that made Steelers brass hit the pause button and rethink everything. Balancing Pickens’ undeniable on-field flashes with some rather persistent off-field distractions has been a tightrope act for Pittsburgh. So, when the offer came — involving 2026 and 2027 draft picks, plus a little back-and-forth — the Steelers decided it was time for both sides to grab a fresh playbook. What does this mean for Steel City’s receiving corps? And can Pickens finally find his stride in Dallas without the drama? Let’s unravel how this whirlwind trade went down and what it means for the future of a player and a franchise both seeking a clean slate.

The Pittsburgh Steelers weren’t actively looking to trade George Pickens, but when the Dallas Cowboys presented an enticing offer, everything changed rapidly.

The Steelers organization had long balanced Pickens’ exceptional talent with his various off field challenges before finally deciding to move in a different direction.

Pittsburgh sent Pickens to Dallas for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection, while returning a sixth-round pick.

For Steelers General Manager Omar Khan, the decision emerged from straightforward discussions and a mutual understanding that both parties could benefit from a fresh start.

“The trade sort of happened quickly,” Khan said, per TribLIVE.com’s Chris Adamski. “We had some people inquire during the draft. Nothing that really made sense. The Cowboys reached out earlier this week. They proposed something for us to think about. We had conversations internally.”

Steelers GM Omar Khan explains how the trade of George Pickens came together pic.twitter.com/pGluHaXJea

— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) May 9, 2025

Pickens was approaching the final season of his rookie deal, signed after being selected in the second round of the 2022 draft.

During his three-year stint with the Steelers, he accumulated 174 catches, 2,841 yards, and 12 touchdowns, an impressive statistical output by any measure. Yet his performance often took a backseat to other issues.

From confrontations with opponents to receiving fines for inappropriate messages on his eye black and questionable blocking effort, Pickens frequently drew attention for reasons beyond his on field production.

Although the Pittsburgh Steelers initially planned to feature Pickens alongside newly acquired DK Metcalf as their primary receiving duo, circumstances have now changed.

General Manager Khan remains unfazed by the adjustment, expressing complete confidence in the team’s remaining depth at the position, which includes Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Scott Miller, and veteran Robert Woods, who joined the team recently.

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