The recent transaction that sent George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys marks a recurring pattern for the Steelers: the departure of wide receivers drafted by the team before they are offered a second contract. Of the 16 receivers drafted since 2007 eligible for an extension, only three have received a second contract.
This situation reflects the challenges organizations face in evaluating and developing talent in this position, especially given the large number of available players and the difficulty of predicting success in the NFL.
It’s a true projection.
Talent Assessor
Despite some successful periods in identifying receivers, the Steelers have chosen to reinforce their receiving corps with veterans through trades and signings, such as DK Metcalf and Robert Woods, respectively. This strategy seeks to balance the talent on the team.
The departure of Pickens, the sixth receiver in the Mike Tomlin era to be traded, is due to concerns about his behavior. This pattern, which includes players like Diontae Johnson and Antonio Brown, appears to be a significant factor in the team’s decisions.
General Manager Omar Khan has indicated that the pattern of trades is a coincidence and that the organization is always looking for good players. The team is focused on winning a championship, and every decision is based on that goal.
Steelers owner Art Rooney II acknowledged the need to properly manage talented players, but also expressed hope that Pickens could reach his potential. However, Pickens’ actions, including on-field incidents and attitude problems, led the Steelers to make the same decision as with other problematic receivers.
By sending George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys earlier this week, the Steelers ensured that another wide receiver drafted by the team will not see a second contract in Pittsburgh.
Pickens showed warning signs, including suspensions and behavioral issues. Despite the team initially dismissing any concerns, the incidents continued throughout his professional career.
Pickens, for his part, expressed his desire for growth and to contribute to a winning culture in Dallas.
Recent history suggests the Steelers have been successful in making timely decisions regarding their receivers. Previous trades involved Johnson and Claypool, who failed to excel on their new teams.
Brown’s move to the Raiders after the 2018 season is an example of how the Steelers maximized a player’s talent while minimizing his negative traits.
The decision to trade Pickens, despite being a key player, appears to be a calculated risk, given the history of off-field issues and the desire to avoid a negative impact on the team.
