Steelers' patience paid off in George Pickens trade with Cowboys

The Pittsburgh Steelers woke up the NFL world with a bombshell trade Wednesday morning, sending star wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys.

The polarizing star had been the subject of trade rumors since the start of the offseason, and the deal to acquire DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks only added more fuel to that fire.

Pittsburgh wound up sending Pickens to the Cowboys in exchange for a third-round pick, along with a Day 3 pick swap.

However, a deal nearly fell through after trade talks stalled given the Cowboys' hesitancy to send more than a fourth-round pick. That was until Jerry Jones stepped in to the Steelers' benefit.

The patience displayed by Pittsburgh paid off in landing a better pick, according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

"In previous trade conversations surrounding Steelers WR George Pickens, the Cowboys offered a fourth-round pick, per source. Jerry Jones and co. stepped up their offer to land the 24-year-old receiver," Russini reported.

Despite the upside Pickens has presented throughout his career, there's an argument that he's been more flash than substance.

The 24-year-old had a superb sophomore season when he posted 63 receptions for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns. However, he regressed in 2024 in a big way when he registered 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns.

Getting a third-round pick for a player entering the final year of his rookie contract is a solid move for Pittsburgh even if it does open up some question marks at the receiver spot opposite Metcalf.

Regardless, the Steelers' decision to stand their ground in trade talks should be commended.

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