There have been accounts of increasing tensions between Pickens and the coaching staff of the Steelers. Starting with skipping team meetings to no longer following the team on Instagram during the draft, Pickens has been ringing alarms within the team.

Behind-the-Scenes Tensions Around Pickens

NFL Trade Rumors: Behind-the Scenes Tension Between George Pickens, Steelers NFL Trade Rumors: Behind-the Scenes Tension Between George Pickens, Steelers
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According to The New York Post, head coach Mike Tomlin officially acknowledged that Pickens was late to the team's Christmas Day game in 2024. Although the receiver's on-field ability is not in question, his off-field conduct has created serious concern in the Steelers' front office.

Would Aaron Rodgers Upend the Narrative?

Palmer wasn't shy about X (formerly Twitter), stating: "Steelers give up a 2nd for D.K. Metcalf – DK signs a massive contract — Pickens is entering the final year of rookie contract – Pickens time with the Steelers has been, politely ... an adventure — Steelers have been doing work on WRs."

Fanning the rumors, free-agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been seen training with Metcalf at UCLA, fueling speculation that the Steelers might be on the verge of signing the future Hall of Famer.

The squad didn't select a quarterback this season, implying that Rodgers could be the planned starter for 2025. If the Steelers were to get him, his presence would increase Pickens' trade value big-time, particularly if the two build on-field chemistry early in the campaign.

Pickens Still Holds Major Value on the Market

Despite the theatrics, Pickens' worth is still high. The 24-year-old has recorded at least 800 receiving yards in each of his first three years, all while contending with spotty quarterback play. In 2024, he caught 59 passes for 900 yards, again demonstrating his deep-threat ability.

Palmer told USA Today that he wasn't sold on the Steelers trading Pickens during the 2025 NFL draft. He clarified that paying "two high-priced receivers seldom works out for teams."

Now, in the last year of his rookie deal, Pickens might be a steal for a contending team that needs a solid receiver on a team-friendly contract.

Should the Steelers Find a Replacement For Pickens

If the Steelers are indeed serious about rebuilding their roster, letting go of Pickens might be a necessity. Having Metcalf in-house and a potential signing of Rodgers coming down the pipeline, Pittsburgh seems set to move on.

But if Pickens opens strong in 2025, his value in trade could skyrocket, making next season one that decides the future for both player and organization.

The only sure thing now? The Steelers' receiver corps is far from being settled.