The NFL Draft is just one day away and the Green Bay Packers are expected to be involved in trade discussions as rumors and negotiations ramp up. The team has been in the market for a wide receiver this off-season and could target one early this weekend, but perhaps they're more interested in the veteran market to solve the issue. According to Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz, Pickens could be "more available" than people think, specifically naming the Packers as a serious suitor
With a late-season injury to Christian Watson, wide receiver is a known need for the Packers. Discussions and rumors have swirled around Green Bay, connecting them to available veterans and top prospects in the draft throughout the off-season.
A former second-round pick, Pickens is in the final year of his rookie deal and will be due for a new contract after the season. He's been on trade watch since the Steelers acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf earlier this off-season. The two can coexist in the same offense, however, their skill sets have some overlap and Pittsburgh is still without a proven quarterback on the roster.
Without an extension in place, it makes plenty of sense for the team to seek out a trade and get value for Pickens. It also makes sense that the Packers would be interested, in adding a vertical threat and possession skill set that the team currently lacks. Adding him would give Green Bay further versatility in the draft to add pass rushers and offensive linemen while solidifying the roles within the receiver room.
The question is of both Pickens' value and what it would take for the Steelers to part with him. If they opt to keep him through the upcoming season, they could receive a compensatory pick if he were to walk and sign with a new team in free agency, but they wouldn't have that pick until 2027.
Pickens also isn't the most locker-room-friendly player. He initially fell in the draft in part due to his abrasive tendencies, which have continued to his professional career as well. The combination of that and his contract status, it may not be expensive to acquire him.
However, he has proven to be a 1,000-yard receiver and is only 24 years old. The value of Pickens may fluctuate wildly from team to team, so it may become a matter of demand. If enough teams are interested it could raise his asking price and turn into a bidding war.
Green Bay has their pick in the first six rounds, so they'll have to determine an appropriate price for Pickens if they are "serious" about acquiring him. If DK Metcalf was valued at a second-round value, Pickens is more akin to a third-round pick, or a fourth-rounder and some.
Pickens would be a big swing to take for the Packers. His talent for the cost could certainly be a massive addition to the Green Bay offense, and his skill set should mesh well with quarterback Jordan Love's play style. However, extending him and committing long-term to potential locker-room drama compromises the team's culture. Whatever decision the front office makes will be worth celebrating, but will come with potential downfalls.
