After losing Russell Wilson in free agency, the Steelers’ quarterback situation could signal George Pickens requesting a trade this offseason. The Steelers lost the free agent to the New York Giants after signing him for one year, $21 million, so this will likely mean Pickens will want to move on, considering the situation. Other than signing Mason Rudolph, the team has yet to find the next quarterback despite losing both Justin Fields and Wilson, so it’s looking like a stalemate in Pittsburgh. It’s already worse for Pickens that the team traded for DK Metcalf, so it seems like they’re heading in a different direction, and they would want to avoid both bumping heads.
Originally selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Georgia product came into the season with some off-field issues and a lack of consistency. Head Coach Mike Tomlin was not happy with his progression, and that could lead to more turmoil if Metcalf is in the same locker room. Pickens has been the center of trade speculation, and with his latest post, it seems like he could be hinting at a possible change. The wide receiver is entering the final year of his rookie contract, but it doesn’t look like he’ll get a new deal this offseason.
It shouldn’t be surprising if the Steelers decide to trade him, considering these scenarios. While it’s still early, this could be a huge moment for someone who may make shockwaves across the league if he winds up on a new team.
BREAKING: Steelers Quarterback Situation Could Signal George Pickens Trade – Chargers, Chiefs Logical Fits
Help for Herbert
Last season, the Los Angeles Chargers came into the campaign with one of the worst receiving cores in the league. 2024 draft pick Ladd McConkey was the only set of reliable hands, while Quentin Johnston was continuing to deplete every game. Joshua Palmer made no difference, but since he’s no longer on the team, the Chargers could use another receiver that will change the landscape of this offense. Mike Williams is past his prime and will only get them so far into the wild card again, but maybe they should sign a veteran.
However, they may take a chance on a wideout with a lot of upside. Pickens may have his antics, but if he joins a contender like the Chargers, he may change his ways. The fourth-year receiver would become the best pass catcher on this roster while McConkey focuses on the slot. It gives Herbert a legitimate long-term weapon since he can’t rely on the ground game forever.
The Receiver Dilemma
It will be an interesting 2025 season for the Kansas City Chiefs in terms of the wide receiver department. Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice are two powerful weapons for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, but they have a lot of off-field legal troubles. It might outweigh their performance on the field, and if that’s the case, they should look into signing or trading for a prime-time wideout.
Marquise Brown is not on the same level as before, so the Chiefs need a playmaker who can make splash plays. They haven’t found that since trading Tyreek Hill, even though they’ve gone back-to-back Super Bowls. The team may trade for Pickens to restore faith in the passing game.