The offseason has been a roller coaster for the San Francisco 49ers after a lackluster 2024 season. The 49ers have seen multiple players leave town via free agency and get traded away.
The 2025 NFL Draft has finally arrived, which means some other players around the league may get moved. The 49ers could use another wide receiver, and there could be one on the move during draft weekend.
FOX Sports Jordan Schultz reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers are taking calls on WR George Pickens, and conversations are being had.
It looks like things are continuing to trend in a bad direction between those two sides. Pickens unfollowed the Pittsburgh Steelers on Instagram, adding fuel to the trade rumors.
George Pickens has unfollowed the #Steelers on IG…. https://t.co/Hqn5S6RDVL pic.twitter.com/VrII6q4XaJ
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 24, 2025
George Pickens Unfollows Steelers on Instagram
While this doesn't mean that Pickens will 100% be moved but when there's smoke, there's typically fire. Pickens is entering the final year of his deal and is certainly looking to cash in. Whether or not Pittsburgh is willing to offer him a lucrative deal is a big question, especially since they gave DK Metcalf a four-year, $132 million extension.
They may not be willing to hand out an extension to Pickens. Again, this is all speculation, but it's clear there are problems between the two.
The 49ers certainly could use another receiver at their disposal. Brandon Aiyuk is rehabbing from a serious knee injury, leaving Ricky Pearsall and Jauan Jennings as the 1-2 punch right now.
San Francisco would be able to find another weapon in the NFL Draft, but Pickens would be a great fit in the Bay. He's someone who has thrived in contested catch situations and does a great job stretching the field.
In 48 career games, Pickens has recorded 174 catches for 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. He has gone over 800 receiving yards in all three seasons, including one season with 1,000-plus receiving yards.
Playing in a better offensive system could unlock his potential even more and give the 49ers another weapon. This is a situation to keep a close eye on during draft weekend.