George Pickens is back in the trade conversation, and this time the noise is coming out of Dallas.
The former Steelers receiver has put up superstar production since Pittsburgh shipped him to the Cowboys, but the story around him hasn’t been clean. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Dallas could be open to moving him before the November 10 trade deadline if the right offer comes along.
On The Pivot Podcast with Ryan Clark, Schultz said, "The biggest name around the league that people are really starting to get curious about is George Pickens in Dallas. He's playing on the franchise tag.
He's not been utilized the same way as last year." He added, "Given the demand for a talent like George Pickens, that is one I am certainly watching."
That possibility has legs because the Cowboys are in a messy spot. Pickens has been a growing distraction for the team across last season and this one, and he is scheduled to reach free agency.
Most teams are wary of handing him a big long-term deal, which is part of why Pittsburgh moved on from him in the first place. Now Dallas may be forced to make a tough call after a wonky season.
The Cowboys sit at 3-5, and while the NFC East is still there for the taking, the roster may need some reshuffling. Moving Pickens could be one way to help the defense and ease some of the pressure around the team.
For Steelers fans, the situation probably looks familiar. Pittsburgh already made the choice to send Pickens away, and the reasons haven’t exactly disappeared.
He has never fit the mold of a team-first player, and his frustration when the ball doesn’t come his way has been hard to miss. Add in the off-the-field shenanigans, and he remains a difficult personality to manage.
That’s also why a reunion in Pittsburgh does not appear to be on the table if he becomes available. The Steelers could use his talent, but they do not need the kind of distraction he can bring. A sideline clash with Aaron Rodgers would be the last thing they want if things went sideways.
For now, Dallas appears willing to listen if the price is right. With Pickens heading toward free agency and the Cowboys not looking eager to hand him a massive extension, both sides may be headed in different directions soon.
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