Omar Khan Explains George Pickens’ Exit
Following the trade of star receiver George Pickens to the Cowboys, Steelers general manager Omar Khan defended the decision, arguing that “it made sense for everyone”.
“We just talked about it, a lot of serious and honest conversations,” Khan said. “We felt a fresh start for both sides was the right thing.”
Omar Khan
Khan added that Pickens did not request the transfer and that the agreement was finalized “quickly”.
The general manager mentioned that he did not consider Pickens’ three years in Pittsburgh a “disappointment,” despite some incidents of immature behavior.
“I wouldn’t use the word disappointment,” Khan said. “We had three years with George and we had some exciting moments, but it’s time for a fresh start. For both parties, it was the right thing.”
Omar Khan
On a conference call, Pickens expressed that he didn’t stop to think about what he could have done differently in Pittsburgh. “I’m glad to be a Cowboy,” he commented.
Despite the trade preventing the Steelers from obtaining draft picks and a possible rookie receiver from this year’s class, Khan expressed confidence in the team’s remaining receivers.
The team previously acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf in a significant trade and recently signed veteran wide receiver Robert Woods. Both join a group that includes Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson.
“We wouldn’t have done this if we didn’t feel good about the receiver situation, about our depth here,” Khan said. “I know people make comparisons to last year, but it’s not even remotely the same.”
Omar Khan
Khan did not rule out the possibility of adding another veteran receiver to the roster to fill the WR2 position, but reiterated his confidence in the current group.
“If there’s an opportunity to add an offensive player, whether it’s a receiver or any other position, we’ll look at it,” he said. “There are always good players available. If we wanted to add someone, we could, but we feel comfortable with them.”
