Steelers Reveal Their Plans For George Pickens’ Future In Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason has been exciting, but the ongoing Brandon Aiyuk saga has become increasingly frustrating. The Steelers have been linked to almost every available wide receiver this offseason, yet a potential trade with the San Francisco 49ers for Aiyuk has dominated the headlines.

If the Steelers were to trade for Aiyuk, they’d need to agree on a long-term contract placing him among the NFL’s elite wide receivers, likely costing over $30 million per year. Reports have stated that the Steelers already have the framework done for an Aiyuk contract if a trade did happen. This has raised questions about George Pickens’ future, as the Steelers will need to make a decision after the 2025 season. Pickens, too, will likely command top-tier wide receiver money once his contract is up.

The Steelers have faced some internal issues with Pickens, making it even more intriguing to see how they view him moving forward. Pittsburgh has shown in the past that they’re not afraid to part ways with wide receivers who become a problem. However, Steelers insider Gerry Dulac reports that even if Pittsburgh were to pay Aiyuk over $30 million annually, Pickens would still be a key part of their future and would be compensated accordingly when the time comes.

"If the 49ers agree to a trade, the Steelers will finalize a new multi-year contract for Aiyuk. But, no matter the amount, it will not affect what the Steelers do when Pickens becomes a free agent after the 2025 season, according to team sources. The Steelers consider Pickens their No. 1 receiver and intend to pay him accordingly."

This report from Dulac underscores how highly the organization values Pickens. However, during the 2023 season, one incident involving Pickens left both fans and the team frustrated. In a critical moment, Pickens refused to block for running back Jaylen Warren on what could have been a scoring play. With Warren charging toward the end zone, Pickens had an opportunity to clear a path but instead stood by, allowing Warren to get drilled. After the game, Pickens explained that he didn’t block because he was trying to avoid injury.

These comments understandably angered fans, leading some to call for him to be benched or even traded. However, Pickens silenced his critics with one of the best performances of his career against the Cincinnati Bengals in the same week, catching four passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns. He quickly reminded everyone just how dangerous of a wide receiver he can be.

The Steelers have a history of being cautious with spending on wide receivers, especially those with attitude concerns. Despite this, Pickens has already shown incredible talent early in his career, consistently making highlight-reel plays. He has the potential to become one of the greatest wide receivers in Steelers history if he can maintain a positive attitude and continue to develop. His impressive performance in an offense led by Matt Canada and Kenny Pickett only hints at how special he could be in a better situation.

While Pickens is undeniably talented, his attitude and effort will be closely monitored as the Steelers eventually decide whether he’s worth a long-term investment. However, according to team sources cited by Dulac, there’s little doubt that Pittsburgh has any plans to move on from Pickens when his contract is up. As it stands today, the Steelers appear hungry to keep Pickens in Pittsburgh well beyond the 2025 season.

Steelers' Zach Azzanni Pushing George Pickens On And Off The Football Field

This offseason, the Steelers hired Zach Azzanni as their new wide receivers coach. With over two and a half decades of experience, Azzanni is a no-nonsense coach who is prepared to push Pickens. 

The two had a heated exchange on the first day of camp, which is exactly why Azzanni was brought in—to challenge Pickens and help him maintain a positive mindset. Working with Azzanni should be highly beneficial to Pickens' growth and development.

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