The Pittsburgh Steelers recently made headlines with a big move, trading wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in a deal that has been highly talked about across the league. As part of the trade, the Cowboys will receive Pickens along with a 2027 sixth-round draft pick, giving them a young, dynamic weapon for their offense. In return, the Steelers will acquire a 2026 third-round draft pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder, adding valuable draft capital that could be used to address other areas of need on the roster or potentially to use for future trades.
This trade creates an opening on the Steelers’ roster for another wide receiver and there are still several free agents available who could potentially be added to strengthen the team’s receiving corps.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly recently discussed these possibilities on his podcast, Kaboly + Mack, where he highlighted two specific wide receiver options that he believes would be strong fits within Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith’s scheme. First, he mentioned former Los Angeles Charger and Chicago Bear, Keenan Allen.
"I've always liked Keenan Allen. I mean I think he would provide a good ying to the yang of DK Metcalf," Kaboly shared.
Allen is a seasoned NFL wide receiver, known for his route-running and dependable hands throughout his career. Over the past decade, he has built an impressive resume that includes six 1,000-yard receiving seasons. Allen is highly effective in the slot, and he uses his speed as well as agility to create separation and keep drives alive.
Although injuries have occasionally interrupted his seasons, he has consistently performed at a high level and earned a reputation as a respected veteran presence both on and off the field. Allen would form a strong and complementary duo alongside newly acquired veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf. Metcalf was brought in from the Seattle Seahawks in a trade that had the Steelers send their 2025 NFL Draft second-round pick in exchange for the explosive veteran.
The Steelers made it clear that Metcalf is an important part of their offensive plans moving forward by signing him to a substantial five-year, $150 million contract earlier this offseason. Pairing Metcalf’s speed and physicality with Allen’s route running would give the Steelers a well-rounded and dangerous receiving duo.
The other wide receiver free agent that Kaboly mentioned as a potential fit for the Steelers was Amari Cooper. Kaboly discussed how Cooper’s presence could bring more than just on-field production to Pittsburgh. He emphasized that Cooper would be a particularly valuable addition to the Steelers' locker room culture. Known for his professionalism, quiet leadership, and team-first mentality, Cooper is the kind of veteran who could help stabilize and mentor receivers while setting a strong example.
"Amari Cooper is right there too for me," Kaboly said. "Like I said, just how great of a locker room guy he is, I think he could help out in that way."
Cooper is a veteran wide receiver who is also known for his strong route running and reliable hands. Over his career, he has accumulated over 10,000 receiving yards and has scored 64 touchdowns. Cooper has played for the Oakland Raiders, Cowboys, Cleveland Browns, and Buffalo Bills, earning four Pro Bowl selections throughout his career. Cooper has a mix of on-field talent and significant off-field value.
Steelers' Options Are Significantly Different From Pickens
It’s no secret to fans that Pickens stood out in the league, not just for his athletic ability but also for his different personality. Known for being outspoken, Pickens often made headlines for his attitude. While his passion for the game is undeniable, it has occasionally translated into issues, both on and off the field. This attitude sometimes led to controversy, and his behavior resulted in mixed reactions from people.
The two wide receiver options Kaboly mentioned are completely different from Pickens in terms of their personalities and leadership styles. Both Cooper and Allen are known for being more soft-spoken leaders who maintain a quiet but strong presence in the locker room. Unlike Pickens, neither has had any significant issues with their attitude; in fact, both are widely seen as positive influences on team chemistry and have earned praise for contributing to strong locker room camaraderie.
While the exact reasons behind Pickens' trade remain unclear, it's reasonable to assume that his attitude may have played a role in the decision. Given the importance of locker room chemistry, especially with the addition of a large personality like Metcalf, adding players like Cooper and Allen could bring a positive shift in the dynamic, specifically in the wide receiver room.
