Some NFL Teams Reportedly 'Laughed' at Idea of George Pickens Trade

Some NFL teams reportedly "laughed" at the idea of trading for George Pickens when learning the Pittsburgh Steelers were shopping the wide receiver during the 2025 NFL draft, according to The Athletic's Jeff Howe.

According to Howe, "there wasn't a lot of interest in talking with the Steelers about a trade" while the draft was taking place from April 24-26 in Green Bay.

"Some teams polled by The Athletic at the time laughed at the idea of inviting Pickens into their locker room for any price, let alone a second-day draft pick," Howe wrote.

The Dallas Cowboys ended up trading a 2026 third-round pick, as well as a 2027 late-round pick swap, on Wednesday to pair Pickens with CeeDee Lamb next season.

Pickens has been a productive receiver, as he was one of only three wideouts with 100-plus targets to average more than 15 yards per catch last season. However, his final campaign with the Steelers was marred by controversies both on and off the field, including criticism regarding his apparent lack of effort on some run-blocking plays.

Pickens also made headlines for incidents including showing up to a game against the Cowboys with eye black that read "Open F--king Always," getting involved in an on-field altercation during a game against the Cleveland Browns, taking more than $20,000 in fines for two unsportsmanlike conduct violations against the Cincinnati Bengals, and reportedly arriving late for a Christmas Day matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Head coach Mike Tomlin, who told reporters during the 2024 season that Pickens has "just got to grow up," has been tied to the decision to trade Pickens by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Gerry Dulac and Steelers insider Mark Kaboly.

The biggest obstacle to trading Pickens might have been his contract status. Pickens is signed for one more season before he is set to hit unrestricted free agency in 2026.

DLLS's Clarence Hill Jr. reported Wednesday that a Cowboys source said Pickens isn't "looking to do" an extension upon his arrival in Dallas, and that the wideout "wants to show he's a top guy this year."

Whether or not the Cowboys' trade for Pickens is ultimately regarded as an overpay could ultimately hinge both on the wide receiver's production and team fit in 2025 as well as his decision regarding his next deal.