George Pickens’ Social Media Move Fuels Steelers Trade Buzz Ahead of NFL Draft: Report
Although the Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t openly expressed interest in trading wide receiver George Pickens, recent developments suggest the situation might be shifting — and not entirely by their choice.
On April 23, just one day before the 2025 NFL Draft, several NFL insiders noted that Pickens had unfollowed the Steelers on Instagram. FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz and Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora were among the first to break the news, with Kozora even sharing a screenshot showing that Pickens had previously followed the team as recently as March 9.
The unfollow sparked speculation and debate across social media, intensifying rumors about a potential trade.
Trade Talks Are Happening, Per Insider
Before Pickens’ social media move made headlines, Schultz reported that multiple NFL teams had inquired about the wideout’s availability. While the Steelers aren’t actively shopping Pickens, Schultz confirmed that “conversations have taken place,” and with Pickens entering the final year of his rookie deal, the timing could make sense.
In a follow-up report, Schultz elaborated, saying Pittsburgh had both fielded and made calls regarding Pickens. One potential factor: the Steelers recently committed significant money to DK Metcalf, and sources around the league doubt the team will invest heavily in two wide receivers.
Although these trade rumors had been circulating prior to April 23, the combination of contract circumstances and the Instagram activity makes the speculation more credible.
A Draft Day Trade? It Could Happen
If Pittsburgh decides to deal Pickens, the NFL Draft would be the logical window to do so. After trading for Metcalf, the Steelers are without a second-round pick, and moving Pickens could help recover that lost draft capital. It’s even possible that a trade could help them secure a replacement at wide receiver right away.
Quarterback Uncertainty Adds Pressure
Another wrinkle in the situation is the team’s uncertainty at quarterback. Had Aaron Rodgers joined the roster, Pittsburgh would likely be locked into a win-now approach. Instead, they’re heading into the draft with Mason Rudolph as the presumed starter — a scenario that leaves plenty of question marks.
League sources told Schultz the Steelers had been hoping for a decision from Rodgers before the draft. Without that clarity, the team may be forced to select a quarterback early. One NFL executive suggested that if Shedeur Sanders is available at pick No. 21, he’s the obvious choice.
Considering the lack of long-term security at quarterback and the hefty investment already made in Metcalf, Pittsburgh may see more value in planning for the future — even if that means dealing Pickens, whose trade value may never be higher than it is now.
Bottom Line
The Steelers might not be actively trying to trade George Pickens, but growing signs — from insider reports to social media drama — suggest the idea is very much on the table. With the draft approaching and several key roster questions unanswered, Pittsburgh may have to make some tough decisions about the direction of their franchise.