AARON Rodgers could be unhappy with the Pittsburgh Steelers if the franchise decides to let go of a key wide receiver in their offense.
Mike Tomlin and the Steelers appear to be in a conundrum with a star player as they await a free agent decision from the four-time NFL MVP Rodgers.
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Aaron Rodgers is currently a free agent after playing the last two seasons with the New York JetsCredit: AP
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Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers could reportedly make a huge change to their wide receiver roomCredit: AP
The Steelers acquired star wideout DK Metcalf in a March trade.
The two-time Pro Bowler then agreed to a five-year, $150 million contract extension.
Steelers fans would be excited to see Metcalf join a wide receiver room that also consists of star George Pickens, but that excitement could be short-lived.
Pittsburgh could part ways with Pickens between now and November’s trade deadline as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, which has quarterback options, per NFL insider James Palmer.
The reporter revealed that both the Steelers and Pickens are very far apart on a contract extension, meaning that the 24-year-old could bolt in 2026.
“His time in Pittsburgh, in a lot of people’s minds, is limited. It has not gone well behind the scenes at all between Pickens, the Steelers, and everybody involved,” Palmer said in a video posted by Bleacher Report.
“And this is leading up to, could he play for them in 2025? Certainly could.
“Would he be departing after the season? Yes. In a lot of people’s minds.”
The Steelers’ 2025 offense could be very impactful, especially if Rodgers signs with the team.
But beyond the next season, things look gloomy for Pickens’ future in Steel City.
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Palmer’s report noted that a roster with two highly-paid wide receivers doesn’t usually work out for teams.
And the insider brought up that it was a “very difficult year for all involved” between the Steelers and Pickens.
Tomlin confirmed last season that Pickens was late to the team’s Christmas Day loss, which was among numerous incidents concerning the Georgia product.
The Steelers gave up a second-round pick to receive Metcalf’s services with Seattle.
The franchise could look to get something in return before Pickens becomes a free agent after the upcoming season.
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Pickens posted 59 receptions in 14 games last seasonCredit: Getty
Still, the Steelers could see how it plays out with their situation with Rodgers and go from there.
They didn’t draft a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, appearing to show that they think the future Hall of Fame quarterback will lead their offense this fall.
Pickens has recorded at least 800 receiving yards in his first three seasons, despite working with numerous quarterbacks.
Last season, he posted 900 yards on 59 receptions.