Early on, the Pittsburgh Steelers looked like one of the NFL’s best teams, getting out to an 8-2 start. Everything was good.
Yet, the year didn’t end on a high note, especially after losing their last five games (four in the regular season, one in the playoffs). Turmoil like that can linger.
Yet, now the Steelers have the advantage of getting a fresh start, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be any issues before the 2025 season kicks off.
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Could George Pickens ‘hold-in’ during Pittsburgh Steelers training camp?
One situation the Pittsburgh Steelers will have to manage is the future of George Pickens. The blossoming star is headed into the final year of his contract, which means long-term negotiations should be taking place this offseason.
However, there’s no guarantee that the Steelers and the soon-to-be 24-year-old will see eye-to-eye on contract value. It’s also possible that the Steelers and Pickens mutually decide that parting ways is best, opening up the possibilities to a trade.
Recently, The Athletic’s Steelers insider Mike DeFabo raised the possibility of Pickens deciding to ‘hold in’ during training camp.
“Whether the Steelers like it or not, this situation is coming to a head, as 2025 is the last year of Pickens’ rookie deal. Even though the organization typically likes to extend productive players before they can hit the open market (and there’s no question Pickens has been productive on the field), that deal appears unlikely this summer.
The Athletic on Pittsburgh Steelers/George Pickens
But if the Steelers think they can simply have Pickens play out his final season, they might need to realize that they aren’t the only ones who determine where things go from here. Pickens could “hold in” at camp to force the Steelers to either deal him or fork over guaranteed money early. Will the Steelers allow themselves to be held hostage, or will they move Pickens while he still has the most value?”
Pickens has recorded 2,841 receiving yards across three seasons, and that’s come without consistent quarterback play. His camp just might wonder what he’s capable of with a thriving passing attack, but all those conversations will take place at the discussion table when trying to hammer out a new deal.
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