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After months of speculation, the Pittsburgh Steelers have finally moved on from wide receiver George Pickens, trading him to the Dallas Cowboys in a deal that marks a significant shift for both franchises. The Cowboys, in search of a reliable No. 2 receiver to pair with star wideout CeeDee Lamb, secured Pickens in exchange for future draft picks.
The trade, completed earlier this week, sends Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick to Dallas in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder. The move comes after Pittsburgh's acquisition of DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks in March, which all but signaled Pickens' departure. With the Steelers reshaping their receiving corps, the former Georgia standout now has an opportunity to thrive in a new system.
Pickens, entering the final season of his rookie contract, has reportedly embraced the transition with enthusiasm. Lamb, speaking to reporters, highlighted the 23-year-old's excitement since arriving in Dallas. "He hasn't stopped smiling since he got here," Lamb said. "I knew who he was as a player, obviously just watching him with the Steelers. He's ionate about the game, and I think sometimes people mistake that ion."
There is still work to be done there
Despite lingering questions about Pickens' future with the Cowboys, the franchise has yet to sign him to an extension. However, the draft capital surrendered in the trade suggests that Dallas views him as a potential long-term piece. If Pickens performs well in his new role, a contract extension could be on the horizon.
For Pittsburgh, moving on from Pickens represents a broader effort to reshape its offense. With Metcalf now leading the receiving unit, the Steelers have committed to a different approach, prioritizing experience over youth. The departure of Pickens closes the chapter on an inconsistent yet promising tenure in Pittsburgh.
As training camp nears, all eyes will be on Pickens and his ability to thrive alongside Lamb in the Cowboys' offense. If he can maximize his potential, Dallas may have found the perfect complementary piece to elevate its ing attack. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh will move forward with its new-look receiving corps, hoping the trade yields long-term success for both sides.