NFL News: Mike Tomlin, Steelers expected to part ways with star player regardless of Aaron Rodgers possibility

Mike Tomlin has been patient this offseason, hoping that Aaron Rodgers ultimately accepts the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ offer to be their starting quarterback in the 2025 NFL season.

Even though the 41-year-old refused to commit to Pittsburgh so far, Tomlin and the Steelers have reportedly decided to keep on waiting for the four-time NFL MVP. Still, the team is expected to part with a star player regardless of A-Rod’s possible arrival.

Adam Schefter of ESPN mentioned Steelers wide receiver George Pickens among a group of players on rookie contracts who could be considered “expendable” during the 2025 NFL Draft.

Selected with the No. 52 pick in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Pickens has started in 40 of his 48 appearances with the Steelers. In three years under Tomlin, the wideout caught 174 passes on 293 targets for 2,841 yards with 12 touchdowns.

George Pickens wide receiver of the Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers deny intention to trade Pickens

The Georgia product is entering the final season of his four-year, $6.8 million rookie deal, which is why there’s speculation about his future in the Steel City. The Steelers, however, have publicly denied the possibility of a trade.

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2025 NFL Draft: Mike Tomlin, Steelers may be forced to pick a QB regardless of Aaron Rodgers’ final decision

When asked about this situation at the NFL annual meetings, Steelers general manager Omar Khan suggested that the plan is to keep Pickens in Pittsburgh.

“You need more than one receiver in this league, and we’re fortunate we have George [Pickens] and Calvin [Austin III] and excited about what Roman [Wilson] is going to be able to do for us,” Khan said.

Steelers boost offense while waiting for Rodgers

This offseason, the Steelers made a big move by trading for star WR DK Metcalf. The former Seattle Seahawks star even had a throwing session with Rodgers after the trade, fueling the rumors about the quarterback’s future.

Many wondered whether Metcalf’s arrival had to do with the possibility of losing Pickens, a scenario that Schefter sees possible this weekend. Khan said it’s not their plan, but things can change fast in the NFL. And while counting on both Metcalf and Pickens would be better for Rodgers, the Steelers’ decision cannot be tied to a QB who’s still contemplating what to do in 2025.