The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t waiting for a final decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers before making their next big move on offense.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday that the Steelers were in the final stages of a trade that would ship their star wide receiver out in exchange for draft picks.
“ESPN sources: Dallas and Pittsburgh are working to finalize a trade that will send wide receiver George Pickens to the Cowboys in exchange for draft pick compensation,” Schefter wrote in a post on X. “The trade is expected to be finalized today.”
Pickens had been a steady presence in the Steelers’ offense, making at least 50 receptions, 800 yards, and three touchdowns in all three of his seasons there.
Sources: The trade between Pittsburgh and Dallas is expected to include a third-round pick and other pick swaps. pic.twitter.com/EZ6vgtxriB
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 7, 2025
Though the trade had not yet been finalized, speculation grew about what the move could mean for the team’s pursuit of Rodgers, who has yet to make a decision about his NFL future. Many suggested that the move reflects a team rebuilding rather than one looking to vie for a Super Bowl.
“The irony of Rodgers potentially (eventually) signing in Pittsburgh, only for Pickens to leave is amazing,” wrote reporter Ryan Cook of The Sporting News. “You cannot make this stuff up.”
“Trade Pickens AFTER THE DRAFT and somebody please tell me the Steelers are NOT trying to tank for 2026?” one fan shared in a post on X. “If im Rodgers I’d tell Omar & Tomlin to kick rocks.”
But others suggested that the Steelers could be trading Pickens to put together the team that best suits Rodgers. The former NFL MVP exerted his influence with the New York Jets over the last two seasons, encouraging the team to bring on some of his favorite players, including the trade for Davante Adams.
There could be some evidence that the Steelers are adopting this approach. Before news of the trade, Yahoo Sports writer Charles Robinson suggested that the Steelers were making roster moves in anticipation of signing Rodgers.
“Aaron Rodgers is going to be the Steelers’ quarterback in the coming weeks or months,” Robinson wrote. “Every move Pittsburgh makes — or doesn’t make — screams it.”
Related: ‘All Signs Positive’ for Aaron Rodgers to Join Steelers