Steelers Trade George Pickens to Cowboys for 2026, 2027 Draft Picks

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, a move the Steelers' GM Omar Khan defended as beneficial for both parties despite Pickens not requesting a trade. Pickens, a significant offensive contributor over three seasons, was on an expiring contract, and the Steelers, having recently acquired DK Metcalf, likely could not justify a contract extension. While this trade nets the Steelers draft capital and salary cap flexibility, some analysis suggests they might have gained similar compensatory picks had Pickens left via free agency after the next season. The trade leaves a gap in the Steelers' wide receiver depth behind Metcalf, as the remaining options include veteran Robert Woods, Calvin Austin III, and 2024 draftee Roman Wilson, none of whom provide strong outside receiving threats. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers, with a crowded wide receiver room, have been linked in trade speculation involving Romeo Doubs, who could fill the Steelers' need for a No. 2 wide receiver and reunite with potential Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This potential trade is viewed as mutually beneficial, with the Packers gaining draft capital and the Steelers enhancing their receiving corps alongside Metcalf.