The San Francisco 49ers have seen a lot of movement along the roster after an underwhelming 2024 campaign. They saw multiple players leave in free agency while trading away WR Deebo Samuel.
Brandon Aiyuk is still rehabbing from a major knee injury, leaving Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, and Demarcus Robinson as the top three WRs going into the NFL Draft.
With the 2025 NFL Draft finally kicking off on Thursday, certain players have been placed on the trade block. According to Jordan Schultz, teams have brought George Pickens up in trade discussions, and he's someone to keep an eye on this week. Schultz added that Pittsburgh isn't shopping him, but conversations around him are being had.
And the 49ers should look into acquiring Pickens.
Sources: Multiple teams have brought up #Steelers WR George Pickens in trade discussions, and he’s a name to watch this week. Pittsburgh isn’t actively shopping him, but the conversations have taken place.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 23, 2025
Pickens is entering the final year of his contract. https://t.co/XRvgZpWMcj pic.twitter.com/ehqs78og3u
49ers Must Make Trade for Steelers WR George Pickens
Pickens is just 24 years old and is heading into the final year of his deal. Per OverThecCap.com, the 49ers have $38.5 million in cap space, so they have the money to offer him a lucrative extension.
The 49ers need to improve the receiver unit and adding a playmaker like Pickens could be a smart choice. San Francisco has 11 total draft picks, including two fourth-round picks. This team should offer pick No. 113 in exchange for Pickens.
San Francisco 49ers
Pittsburgh SteelersMoving a fourth-round pick for a player of Pickens' caliber would be a steal. The Georgia product stands at 6-foot-3 and uses that size to be a contested catch force. He has logged at least 800 receiving yards in three straight seasons. In 48 career games, Pickens has tallied 174 receptions (293 targets) for 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.
With Samuel no longer in the fold, Aiyuk coming back from a major knee injury, and George Kittle on the wrong side of 30, the 49ers need to bring in more playmakers for their offense.
Pickens fits the mold to a tee. He's young, dynamic, and would immediately improve the 49ers' passing attack. Even though he isn't officially on the trade block, the 49ers should call Pittsburgh to see if they can hammer out a deal.