Insider explains how trading George Pickens could benefit the Steelers in the NFL

The recent trade of George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Dallas Cowboys has sparked discussions and debates among football fans and analysts. Pickens, a talented wide receiver, has been a standout player for the Steelers over the past two seasons. In 2023, he recorded impressive stats, making 63 catches for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns in all 17 games. Despite his success on the field, it seems that his off-field behavior and attitude have raised concerns within the Steelers’ organization.

ESPN’s Louis Riddick has weighed in on the trade, suggesting that the Steelers may be better off without Pickens. Riddick theorized that sometimes it is necessary to move on from a talented player if their behavior and attitude become problematic. While Pickens is undoubtedly a talented player, Riddick believes that the Steelers may see his departure as an “addition by subtraction” situation, where removing him from the team could benefit the overall dynamic and chemistry of the roster.

The Cowboys, on the other hand, see Pickens as a valuable addition to their receiving corps. Paired with star wideout CeeDee Lamb, Pickens could create a formidable duo for quarterback Dak Prescott to target. However, some skeptics question whether Pickens’ talent is worth the potential off-field distractions he may bring. His reputation for causing issues within the coaching staff raises concerns about his fit within the Cowboys organization.

One point of contention surrounding the trade is Pickens’ contract situation. As he enters the final year of his rookie deal, the Cowboys have opted not to extend his contract immediately after acquiring him. This decision differs from the usual practice of teams extending players after trading for them. The Cowboys may be taking a risk by allowing Pickens to play on an expiring deal, especially considering the third-round pick they gave up to acquire him.

Additionally, the Cowboys are currently navigating other contract negotiations, particularly with star defender Micah Parsons. Parsons, who is set to enter the final year of his rookie deal in 2025, is a key player for the Cowboys’ defense. Balancing the needs of both Pickens and Parsons in terms of contract extensions could present challenges for the Cowboys’ front office.

While some speculate that the Steelers’ decision to trade Pickens could be related to their pursuit of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, others believe that the move was primarily driven by internal team dynamics. The impact of Pickens’ departure on the Steelers’ future remains to be seen, but it is clear that both the Steelers and the Cowboys have made calculated moves in the interest of their respective teams’ success.