PITTSBURGH — The Dallas Cowboys are poised to finalize an intriguing trade that will bring wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to multiple sources. The agreement, expected to include a third-round draft pick along with additional pick swaps, is set to be completed Wednesday, enhancing the Cowboys’ offensive arsenal.
The transaction comes as Pickens enters the final year of his rookie contract, making him eligible for a potential extension. Steelers general manager Omar Khan had previously indicated in February that the organization was open to negotiating a deal, but now appears ready to part ways with the young talent.
At just 24 years old, Pickens has already emerged as a significant contributor on the field. Last season, he recorded 59 receptions for 900 yards and scored three touchdowns. His consistent performance has seen him hit at least 50 catches, 800 receiving yards, and three touchdowns in each of his three seasons with the Steelers.
Despite his impressive numbers, Pickens faced challenges last year, including a hamstring strain that sidelined him for three games and a series of on-field controversies. In a December matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, he was penalized twice for unsportsmanlike conduct. Days earlier, he was involved in a physical altercation with Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II during a pivotal Hail Mary attempt.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged these behavioral concerns, emphasizing the need for Pickens to mature as an athlete. “This is an emotional game. He’s got to grow up,” Tomlin remarked after the Bengals game, highlighting the added pressure that comes with being a high-profile player. When discussing Pickens during a later press conference, Tomlin reaffirmed his belief in the receiver’s potential while noting there is still considerable room for improvement.
The Cowboys are no strangers to bolstering their receiving corps through trades. This will mark their second acquisition of a wide receiver in recent months, following a November deal that saw them acquire Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers. Mingo played sparingly for Dallas, featuring in eight games with five receptions for 46 yards.
The addition of Pickens is expected to provide quarterback Dak Prescott with another dynamic target, complementing established star CeeDee Lamb. As the Cowboys aim for greater offensive firepower heading into the upcoming season, all eyes will now be on how the new tandem will perform on the field.
As the dust settles on this trade, both the Cowboys and Steelers appear ready to embrace new chapters. For Dallas, the arrival of Pickens could signal a more aggressive offensive strategy, while Pittsburgh must shift focus to other potential candidates to fill the gap left by his departure.