Steelers Trade Receiver George Pickens to Cowboys for Draft Picks

FRISCO, Texas – The Pittsburgh Steelers completed a trade with the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday, sending wide receiver George Pickens to Dallas in exchange for a third-round pick in 2026 and a fifth-round pick in 2027. The deal also includes the Steelers receiving a sixth-round pick in 2027.

Pickens, 24, was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. During his time with Pittsburgh, he played in 48 games, making 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns. Last season, he caught 59 passes for 900 yards and three touchdowns.

The trade marks a significant shift for both teams. For the Cowboys, adding Pickens fulfills their search for a solid No. 2 receiver to pair with Pro Bowler CeeDee Lamb. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones hinted at the need for further offensive upgrades before the NFL draft.

Pittsburgh’s decision to trade Pickens comes after they acquired a new No. 1 receiver during the offseason, which limited Pickens’ role on the team. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Pickens’ struggles with consistency both on and off the field during the 2024 season, including incidents of unsportsmanlike conduct.

“He’s just got to grow up, man,” Tomlin said after a critical game late last season. “He’s got a target on his back. But he’s got to grow up in a hurry.”

In his first three seasons with Pittsburgh, Pickens demonstrated flashes of brilliance but also faced challenges, including a hamstring strain that caused him to miss games in 2024. This move allows the Cowboys to enhance their wide receiver depth, with Pickens joining Lamb and other new acquisitions to bolster their offensive lineup.

The trade could offer new opportunities for Pickens as he looks to make a mark with a playoff-contending team. The Cowboys are optimistic that this addition will strengthen their roster ahead of the coming NFL season.