Pairing George Pickens and DK Metcalf provides the Pittsburgh Steelers with two boundary threats who can do damage vertically. Toss in tight end Pat Freiermuth, and the Steelers have a trio that can cause havoc.
There have been some discussions about the Steelers trading Pickens, but the coaching staff and front office believe the WR duo is best together.
In an interview on The Kaboly + Mack Show, Freiermuth said he's talked to Pickens, who is ready to compete.
"I've talked to (Pickens) a decent amount this offseason. GP's a great guy, he's good to have in the locker room. Obviously, stuff happens on the field, but that's just part of football and being a competitor. He cares, he tries a lot, he works hard. He's a hell of a talent as well," Freiermuth said Wednesday, via Steelers Depot. "So having him and DK on the outside, obviously with me in the middle of the field, is gonna cause defenses a lot of conflict. ... I know GP is ready to work with DK, and GP is never shy of competition, so he's gonna rely on DK for his advice and stuff like that. But GP's ready to roll for sure."
If the Steelers change gears and trade Pickens, it would likely happen before the 2025 NFL Draft. If they stand pat, the field-stretching duo of GP and DK could help open the running game and the middle of the field for Freiermuth.
Freiermuth has never hit the 750-yard receiving mark in four seasons in Pittsburgh. Still, he owns the ability to beat linebackers and safeties. In a more open passing offense, the 26-year-old has the pass-catching skill set to be more prolific. Adding Metcalf will take away a chunk of targets, but it could also provide Freiermuth more open grass to take advantage of one-on-ones.
The key to the pass catcher chatter in Pittsburgh hinges on who ultimately winds up under center in Week 1. The Steelers continue to wait on Aaron Rodgers. While the four-time NFL MVP makes up his mind, Pittsburgh is meeting with a trove of potential draft picks. Whoever ends up as the quarterback will have a stellar trio with whom to build a more dynamic offense than we've seen in years in the Steel City.
