Russell Wilson and Justin Fields Behind George Pickens’ Steelers Exit After Mike Tomlin Wanted WR Gone

You could sense it in the body language. One receiver, three quarterbacks, and zero clarity. When George Pickens showed up to offseason workouts this spring, there was no Russell Wilson, no Justin Fields, and no official QB1. Just a familiar uncertainty in Pittsburgh—a vibe Pickens had grown weary of. So when the call came from Dallas, he didn’t hesitate. He didn’t ask for a new contract. He asked who was throwing him the ball.

After parting ways with Mike Tomlin‘s Pittsburgh Steelers, wide receiver George Pickens has entered Jerry Jones‘ territory. The Steelers traded the talented wideout to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. And let’s be clear — the Steelers lost a gem. In 2024, Pickens recorded 59 receptions for 900 yards, averaging 15.3 yards per catch with three touchdowns. But following the trade, George Pickens reportedly pointed fingers.

According to NFL reporter Calvin Watkins, Pickens blamed the unstable Steelers’ quarterback carousel for his departure. “From what I’ve gathered this afternoon, George Pickens is excited to join the Cowboys (surprised right?),” Watkins posted. “The unsettled QB situation in Pitt had him concerned about his future, and while he’s immature in some areas (aren’t we all), he’s all about football.”

The implication is clear: If Wilson had remained committed to Pittsburgh — or had the franchise committed to him — Pickens might have stayed. Instead, he found a turbulent quarterback room, featuring Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard after the exits of Wilson and Fields (while waiting on Aaron Rodgers). This made Pickens question his place in the offense and long-term value to the team.

From what I’ve gathered this afternoon George Pickens is excited to join Cowboys (surprised right?) the unsettled QB situation in Pitt had him concerned about his future and while he’s immature in some areas (aren’t we all) he’s all about football.

— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) May 8, 2025

Watkins added more context, reporting that Pickens sees the Cowboys’ quarterback situation — led by Dak Prescott — as a significant upgrade. “Dallas’ settled QB situation (that’s Dak Prescott) was an attraction for him,” Watkins noted. “Playing with CeeDee Lamb is something he believes will benefit him. He has tremendous respect for Tomlin. No desire for a contract extension. Willing to prove himself.”

It’s a subtle but sharp jab at the Steelers’ current situation. Despite technically having three quarterbacks on the roster, the team has no clear QB1 and is still reportedly holding out for Aaron Rodgers to make a decision. The dysfunction clearly didn’t sit well with Pickens.

Whether the receiver’s concerns were justified or not, he’s made his move—and he’s betting that catching passes from Dak will reset his trajectory. As for the Steelers? They’re left hoping Rodgers brings more than just headlines to a team in transition.

Stay tuned, this is a developing story. 

The post Russell Wilson and Justin Fields Behind George Pickens’ Steelers Exit After Mike Tomlin Wanted WR Gone appeared first on EssentiallySports.