Steelers WR George Pickens Sparks Trade Rumors After Cryptic Post
Steelers WR George Pickens Sparks Trade Rumors After Cryptic Post...
Trade speculation surrounding Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens intensified Friday after the 24-year-old deleted all Steelers-related content from his Instagram and posted a cryptic message. The sudden social media activity has fueled rumors that the disgruntled receiver could be on the move before next week's NFL Draft.
Pickens, a 2022 second-round pick, posted a since-deleted Instagram Story early Friday morning showing an hourglass emoji with no caption. The timing is notable as NFL teams finalize draft plans, with Pittsburgh holding the No. 20 overall pick. League sources told ESPN the Steelers have received "exploratory calls" about Pickens this offseason.
The receiver's production dipped last season amid reported friction with quarterback Kenny Pickett and offensive coordinator Matt Canada, who was fired midseason. Pickens finished with 63 catches for 1,140 yards but drew criticism for inconsistent effort and sideline outbursts. His social media scrub comes exactly one year after he deleted similar Steelers content during contract negotiations.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the situation briefly Friday, telling reporters: "George is under contract and we expect him to be here." However, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported multiple teams have inquired about Pickens' availability, with the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers showing interest.
Fan reaction has been divided, with some Steelers supporters calling for the team to trade Pickens while others blame the organization for failing to develop him. The situation remains fluid as Pittsburgh weighs whether to move the talented but volatile receiver or attempt to mend the relationship.
Pickens' $1.3 million salary for 2024 makes him an attractive trade target. The Steelers could package him with their first-round pick to move up in the draft for a top receiver like LSU's Malik Nabers. Pittsburgh has until April 25 to make a decision before the draft begins in Detroit.
