Problematic star wide receiver George Pickens could be on the trade block and the Saints, Panthers could pursue him. Multiple reports state the Steelers are tired of his antics on the sideline after not receiving many snaps. Pickens has been having a rough 2024 campaign after displaying a poor attitude and lack of effort on the field. Originally selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, the George Product hoped to establish himself as a stable weapon for any future incoming quarterback.
However, his inconsistencies and attitude could force the Steelers to trade him to avoid animosity in the locker room. His antics are affecting the other players so this should be something that head coach Mike Tomlin could consider. The Steelers haven’t been able to find a receiver this past offseason after trading Diontae Johnson to Carolina. Pickens’ lack of effort isn’t helping the team but they’re hoping he could improve when Russell Wilson starts.
If the issues continue and the Steelers continue losing, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if they make him available for a trade. Pickens isn’t satisfied with the situation in Pittsburgh since the team moved on from Kenny Pickett. However, the Steelers are hoping the young wideout can find his footing. He’s eligible for a contract extension next year but they probably won’t do it so they might as well trade him while healthy.
Problematic Star George Pickens May Be On Trade Block, Saints, Panthers Could Pursue Him
Saving the Saints
New Orleans can’t catch a break. The team was hoping to have a decent season after going on a 2-0 start but the offense started collapsing. Dennis Allen will have to move forward without Derek Carr and Rashid Shaheed for a couple of weeks so this may force them to scramble for a trade. The offensive line was already an issue before the injuries but if nothing else, they could keep rookie Spencer Rattler comfortable by trading for someone like Pickens.
Carr wanted Davante Adams but his injury made the team think otherwise about the future of this team. They didn’t want to bring in a short-term veteran to boost their chances for a deep playoff run. It doesn’t help that this will likely be Carr’s last year if Rattler performs better. However, this trade could save Allen’s job even though it’s a high-risk investment due to Pickens performance issues.
Pickens is still young and could be a short-term solution for a team that’s still figuring out the lineup from a banged-up Chris Olave. Perhaps, he won’t last longer than three years but it’s better than nothing to continue developing this offense.
Rebuilding the Panthers
The 1-5 are more than likely to tank again after coming off an atrocious season last year. The Panthers were hoping Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen would be their go-to receivers for the immediate future. However, this was probably a test run for the team after bringing in new head coach Dave Canales. Johnson will likely be dealt in a trade and Thielen is on IR, they need all the help they can get to establish rookie Xavier Legette.
Carolina moved on from Terrace Marshall since they didn’t know how to use him. However, trading for Pickens could be a fine consolation prize to rebuild their future. Johnson might’ve not worked out but if the Panthers get a legitimate quarterback or give Bryce Young a chance, this offense can target the ball more to him. Pickens may not be the brightest but a fresh new start might be what he needs to re-establish his value.
