The whirlwind of an offseason for the Steelers included a trade of one of the better young receivers in the NFL, George Pickens. Pickens, 24, was traded to the Dallas Cowboys back in May.
From a football standpoint, Pickens has been very consistent. He’s the only receiver over the past three seasons to post 50-plus catches, 800-plus yards, and average over 15 yards per catch.
Unfortunately, he’s been just as consistent from a drama standpoint.
Since the trade, he has taken multiple shots at the Steelers
organization, including a recent Instagram story repost in which he commented on the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade, which saw the safety head to the Miami Dolphins. Pickens wrote, “back to beautiful places in life lol.”
Former #Steelers WR George Pickens showing love to his ex teammate Minkah Fitzpatrick via IG
— Steelers Network (@SteelersNetwork) June 30, 2025
“Back to beautiful places in life lol” pic.twitter.com/y7yWxyYxNZ
Now, in his first official training camp press conference with the Cowboys, he couldn’t resist taking another jab at his former team.
“I’m definitely excited to run better plays,” Pickens said.
George Pickens was used often as a deep ball player in Pittsburgh. He was asked about his full route tree and how that can be utilized in Dallas.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) July 22, 2025
“I’m definitely excited to run better plays.”
Pickens called his experience in Dallas a fresh start that he’s been enjoying. pic.twitter.com/Sjy06Vt2GV
Well, ok then.
We’re all getting a glimpse of why Pittsburgh decided to part ways with a key cog in their offense. The volatile receiver reportedly would pick fights with fans and opponents, wear controversial eye-tape, and reportedly show up late to both practices and games.
When you take all of that into account, ironically, the best play for the Steelers was probably to make a change.
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