The Pittsburgh Steelers' experiment with George Pickens has been an interesting one. His talent has been evident since the team took him with their second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Pickens has not finished with less than 800 yards in any of his three seasons despite the team's inconsistent quarterback play. That would presumably make him a valued asset for the future of the franchise.
However, a volatile personality has stirred the pot on occasion, making matters more difficult at times. The three-year pro is due an extension from his rookie contract that the Steelers have yet to offer.
That offer may never come to fruition.
Last week, Pittsburgh traded for former Seattle Seahawks wideout DK Metcalf, adding a new alpha personality to the mix. At a glance, it is a marked upgrade for what has been a lackluster Steelers receiving group.
Instead, it could be a signal to the future, especially if Pickens' recent cryptic Instagram post has any meaning behind it.
Pickens shared an ominous black and white photo of himself standing next to Las Vegas Raiders partial owner and future Pro Football Hall of Famer Tom Brady. With some rumors lurking throughout the offseason, this post is not one to settle any such talk.
The Steelers have not moved on any extension and it does not seem they are motivated to do so, meaning Pickens would be set to hit free agency next offseason.
But searching for a less gloomy theory, perhaps Pickens is hinting at something else in regard to the Steelers. Brady is an all-time quarterback and the Steelers have lacked at the position since Ben Roethlisberger retired.
Maybe there is a subtle call-to-action for the Steelers who now have two elite pass catchers at their disposal for one season.
Oftentimes the No. 1 receivers across the lead fit the overdramatic and temperamental archetype. Pickens is no different here.
Obviously there is some frustration from his end and understandably so. He has shown he can perform without any semblance of stability at quarterback and that should draw some gratitude.
Regardless, the saga between Pickens and the Steelers will be one to watch heading into next season and if things take a sour turn, maybe the rumors begin to pick back up.
