Pittsburgh Steelers wideout George Pickens entered the offseason as one of the organization’s biggest question marks.

Pickens, regarded as a potential trade target, is slated to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. The 24-year-old will be due for a payday, but that doesn’t guarantee Pittsburgh’s willingness to extend that offer. The Steelers already committed to a five-year, $150 million agreement with two-time Pro Bowler DK Metcalf this offseason, which further amplified the uncertainty surrounding Pickens.

So, what direction should the Steelers turn? Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette offered a (stern) suggestion for Pittsburgh.

“They should never trade (George Pickens) for anything less than a third-round pick,” Fittipaldo said on Pittsburgh’s “93.7 The Fan” radio show. “No matter if they do that this spring or in the fall because George is gonna sign a big contract if he walks in free agency, and at the minimum you’re gonna get a third-round (compensation) pick. So unless you could get a two or a three for George on draft day, or for George at the deadline, you just don’t do it. You just hang onto it.”

Fittipaldo continued: “I think the only way a receiver would be in play at (No.) 21 would be if they’re going to turn around and trade George on draft day. So I think that’s a possibility. And look at the pre-draft visits. I know we’re only eight or 10 in, but I think they’ve already brought in three receivers and they’re all in that second, third-round range — guys who are gonna be available on Day 2.”

Pickens is a draw as the organization undergoes its offseason search for a quarterback. With options such as Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers on the table, having Pickens — alongside Metcalf — strengthens Pittsburgh’s case. Pickens tallied 900 receiving yards off 59 receptions with three touchdowns across 14 appearances last season. He missed three games due to a hamstring injury before returning for the team’s Christmas Day matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17.

The Steelers also need to consider the brunt that could come with playing the waiting game. Pickens could suffer an injury or produce at a lower level, two possibilities that would impact his trade value.