Cowboys Reportedly Targeted Steelers' AFC North Rival's Receiver Over George Pickens But Were Shut Down

The Pittsburgh Steelers currently find themselves with multiple question marks on the offensive side of the ball. After completing a shocking trade that shipped star wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers now find themselves lacking depth in both the QB and WR room. Despite having one year left on his rookie contract, the Steelers' opted to trade the young star now, as signing Pickens to a new deal next season was unlikely with the recent acquisition of D.K. Metcalf. 

The Steelers were reportedly in discussions with multiple teams about trading Pickens before finalizing the deal with Dallas, as Pittsburgh initially sought young talent in return rather than draft picks. At the same time, the Cowboys were exploring wide receiver options across the league, with several teams emerging as potential trade partners.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Steelers' star wideout was not the first choice for the Cowboys. Schultz reported that Ravens rising star Rashod Bateman was a top option, but the two teams were unable to reach an agreement on a deal. Bateman, 25, is one of the league's top rising stars and has a massive amount of potential and upside. The Ravens never showed true interest in parting ways with the young wide receiver, as Dallas quickly pivoted toward Pickens and the Steelers.

At just 24 years old, Pickens now finds himself in Dallas with a veteran and well established quarterback in Dak Prescott. Pickens should have no problem fitting in as the Cowboys second wide receiver, as the former Steeler is expected to cause a world of problems for opposing defenses. Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb should benefit from Pickens' presence on the field as well, as Lamb will now have much more room to work with. With Pickens officially in Dallas, the Cowboys now find themselves with a wide receiver room that features two of the top wideouts in the league. 

After spending the first three seasons of his career in Pittsburgh, Pickens will now look to establish himself as one of the league’s top receivers as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. The wideout experienced both highs and lows in a Steelers uniform, with his off-field issues at times overshadowing his production and impact on the field. Still, Pickens is a highly talented receiver who made a significant difference in Pittsburgh's offense when at his best.

Most notably, Pickens recorded 1,140 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2023, marking a breakout year for the rising star. He led the Steelers in both targets and receiving yards over the past two seasons. With his departure, Metcalf is expected to take over as the team’s primary receiving threat after being acquired in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks earlier this offseason.

Steelers' Receiver Room Could Get Help Soon

The Steelers now find themselves with a depleted and underwhelming wide receiver room, with Metcalf officially stepping in as the team's WR1 heading into the season. While it remains unclear who will claim the WR2 role, the Steelers may look to free agency to add an experienced veteran presence to the group. 

Given the current state of the roster, young wideouts like Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson could have breakout opportunities, as both are expected to compete for a significant role. With Pickens officially gone and depth lacking at key positions, Pittsburgh is expected to regroup quickly and make several moves in free agency in the coming weeks.

How did you feel about the Pickens trade? Did the Steelers make the right move? Comment Below!

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