Imagine this: The Pittsburgh Steelers, fresh off a playoff run but still lacking an elite QB, face a tough decision—do they pull the trigger on a George Pickens trade, dealing their explosive young wide receiver to accelerate a rebuild?
With the 2025 NFL offseason in full swing, George Pickens trade rumors have reached a fever pitch. Analysts are divided: Should Pittsburgh capitalize on his skyrocketing market value, or double down by making him the centerpiece of their offense for years to come?
In this guide, you’ll learn:
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The latest George Pickens trade rumors (2025 updates)
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Which teams could realistically trade for him
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Fantasy football implications of a potential deal
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Step-by-step breakdown of how a trade could unfold
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Common misconceptions about his market value
Let’s dive in.
George Pickens Trade Rumors: The Latest (2025 Updates)
As of May 2025, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that at least five teams have “exploratory interest” in acquiring Pickens. The Steelers haven’t actively shopped him, but they’re reportedly listening to offers.
Key Factors Driving Trade Speculation:
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Steelers’ QB Uncertainty – With Kenny Pickett’s future still in question, Pittsburgh may prioritize draft capital.
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Pickens’ Contract Situation – He’s entering the final year of his rookie deal, making extension talks crucial.
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Wide Receiver Market Boom – Elite WRs are fetching first-round picks plus in trades (see: A.J. Brown, Tyreek Hill deals).
Takeaway: If Pittsburgh doesn’t see Pickens as a long-term fit, 2025 is the ideal time to move him.
Teams Most Likely to Trade for George Pickens
Based on team needs, cap space, and draft assets, these franchises make the most sense:
1. New England Patriots
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Why? Desperate for a true WR1 after failing to develop recent draft picks.
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Trade Package Prediction: 2026 1st-round pick + 2025 3rd-rounder.
2. Carolina Panthers
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Why? Bryce Young needs weapons, and Pickens’ contested-catch ability fits well.
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Trade Package Prediction: 2025 2nd-round pick + 2026 conditional 3rd.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
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Why? Patrick Mahomes could turn Pickens into a superstar.
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Trade Package Prediction: 2025 1st-round pick (late) + a mid-round swap.
Takeaway: The Chiefs are a dark horse—if they want him, they’ll get aggressive.
Step-by-Step: How a George Pickens Trade Could Happen
Step 1: Steelers Set an Asking Price
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Likely demand: At least a 1st-round pick (similar to the Stefon Diggs trade).
Step 2: Interested Teams Make Initial Offers
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Expect lowball offers first (e.g., a 2nd + a player).
Step 3: Negotiations Intensify Before the Deadline
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If a contender loses a WR to injury, Pickens’ value spikes.
Step 4: The Deal Gets Done (Or Doesn’t)
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Best-case scenario: Steelers land a 1st + a Day 2 pick.
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Worst-case: They keep him and risk losing him in free agency.
Fantasy Football Impact of a George Pickens Trade
A trade could skyrocket or tank Pickens’ fantasy value depending on the landing spot:
| Team | Fantasy Upside | Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Chiefs | Top-12 WR | Target competition |
| Patriots | WR2 with volume | QB play? |
| Panthers | High-risk WR2 | Offensive struggles |
Takeaway: If he goes to KC, draft him aggressively.
Common Misconceptions About a George Pickens Trade
❌ “The Steelers won’t trade him—he’s too talented.”
✅ Reality: If the offer is strong enough, every player is available.
❌ “Pickens is a lock for 1,200+ yards if traded.”
✅ Reality: His production depends on QB play (see: DJ Moore in Carolina vs. Chicago).
FAQs: George Pickens Trade Rumors
1. What would the Steelers want in a trade?
At minimum, a 1st-round pick or multiple high Day 2 selections.
2. Which team is the best fit for Pickens?
Kansas City—Mahomes would maximize his deep-threat ability.
3. When is the most likely trade deadline for Pickens?
Before Week 8 if Pittsburgh struggles, or next offseason if they delay.
4. How does this affect Kenny Pickett?
Losing Pickens would hurt, but Pittsburgh may draft another WR early.
5. Could Pickens hold out for a new contract?
Unlikely—he has no leverage until 2026 free agency.
6. What’s Pickens’ current trade value?
Around a late 1st-round pick, per NFL Network.
7. Would the Ravens or Bengals trade for him?
Doubtful—division rivals rarely make big trades.
Conclusion: Should the Steelers Trade George Pickens?
The George Pickens trade debate boils down to risk vs. reward. If Pittsburgh gets a 1st-round pick plus, they should seriously consider it—especially if they don’t plan to extend him. However, if they believe he’s a future All-Pro, keeping him could pay off long-term.
For fantasy managers, monitor the Chiefs and Patriots as potential landing spots. For Steelers fans, brace for a possible blockbuster. One thing’s certain: The 2025 offseason just got more interesting.
