The Pittsburgh Steelers have built a reputation for developing talented wide receivers, only to part ways with them before signing costly contract extensions. Now, wide receiver George Pickens may find himself on that same path, with speculation growing that Pittsburgh could move him while his trade value is high.
Recent buzz surrounding a potential deal came from Steelers beat reporter Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, who proposed a mock trade sending Pickens to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a second-round pick — No. 57 overall — in the 2025 NFL Draft. While trading away a young, dynamic playmaker like Pickens may seem drastic, DeFabo lays out a compelling case for why it might be the right move for Pittsburgh’s long-term success.
Steelers’ Receiver Dilemma: Metcalf In, Pickens Out?
The Steelers’ acquisition of DK Metcalf earlier this offseason has reshaped their wide receiver room and put the team in an enviable but challenging position. With Metcalf on board, Pittsburgh suddenly has a legitimate No. 1 receiver, which could make extending Pickens an unnecessary luxury.
Pickens, entering the final year of his rookie deal, is likely to command a hefty payday if he continues his upward trajectory. However, head coach Mike Tomlin has publicly expressed concerns about Pickens’ maturity, previously stating that the young wideout “needs to grow up.” Given the potential for a contract holdout or “hold-in” during training camp — a tactic used by Diontae Johnson and others in the past — the Steelers might prefer to avoid a drawn-out negotiation and move on from Pickens now.
Why Carolina Makes Sense as a Trade Partner
The Carolina Panthers present a logical landing spot for Pickens. After acquiring Johnson last year, Carolina still needs more firepower alongside promising young receiver Xavier Legette and veteran Adam Thielen, who is nearing the end of his career. Pickens would provide an immediate upgrade and give second-year quarterback Bryce Young another reliable target.
For the Steelers, moving Pickens to Carolina would net them a valuable second-round pick, which they could immediately use to address the void left by his departure.
Replacing Pickens: Jayden Higgins Emerges as Target
DeFabo suggests that if the Steelers trade Pickens, they should target Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins as his replacement. Higgins, a 6-foot-4, 217-pound receiver, had a breakout 2024 season with 87 receptions, 1,183 yards, and nine touchdowns. His size, catch radius, and willingness to block make him an ideal fit for Pittsburgh’s run-heavy offense, which ranked fourth in rushing attempts last season.
Higgins’ versatility — with experience playing both inside and outside — adds another dimension to Pittsburgh’s passing game. His ability to work out of the slot could pair well with Metcalf’s vertical threat, giving the Steelers a balanced receiving corps. Furthermore, if Aaron Rodgers joins the Steelers as some rumors suggest, Higgins would be a natural fit, as Rodgers historically favors slot receivers, targeting them 32.2% of the time in 2024.
Steelers Can’t Afford to Miss on Pickens’ Replacement
If Pittsburgh decides to move on from Pickens, they will be under immense pressure to nail their next wide receiver selection. Metcalf alone won’t carry the passing game, and the development of 2024 draft pick Roman Wilson remains uncertain heading into year two. A misstep in replacing Pickens could leave the Steelers dangerously thin at wide receiver, derailing their offensive progress.
On the other hand, if Pittsburgh hits on a replacement like Higgins or another promising prospect, the move could pay dividends by resetting the clock on their wide receiver contract situation and maintaining long-term roster flexibility.
The Clock Is Ticking: Trade Could Be Imminent
Pickens’ tenure in Pittsburgh has been filled with flashes of brilliance but also controversy, making it difficult for the Steelers to fully commit to him long-term. With Metcalf already on the roster and the possibility of securing a high draft pick in return, the writing may be on the wall. Rather than risk losing Pickens for minimal return or navigating a contentious contract situation, Pittsburgh may opt to strike while the iron is hot and maximize his trade value.
If the Steelers make the move, they’ll need to ensure that whoever steps into Pickens’ shoes can contribute immediately — or risk taking a step back in their pursuit of a Super Bowl.
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