Adam Peters has traded away plenty of useful draft assets in recent months. The Washington Commanders are ahead of schedule, leaving the general manager confident enough to make win-now moves for Marshon Lattimore, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Laremy Tunsil. These were major statements of intent, one that made every team take this sleeping giant seriously.
It would be surprising if the Commanders got involved in the trade market again unless it was moving down for more picks. At the same time, Peters was quick to keep everything on the table during his pre-draft media availability.
Commanders should be wary about potential George Pickens trade
One stunning development comes with more intrigue than most. According to Jordan Schultz from FOX Sports, several teams have called the Pittsburgh Steelers regarding the availability of wide receiver George Pickens. Nothing has been confirmed, and they might be reluctant sellers when push comes to shove, but it's something for Peters to potentially monitor if the price is right.
"Multiple teams have brought up Steelers WR George Pickens in trade discussions, and he’s a name to watch this week. Pittsburgh isn’t actively shopping him, but the conversations have taken place. Pickens is entering the final year of his contract."Jordan Schultz
The Commanders could use another dynamic weapon for Daniels to utilize. Pickens is gifted, there's no getting away from that. He is also a volatile character that needs to be managed effectively.
Much will depend on the compensation involved. The Steelers haven't shown a fierce desire to remove the former Georgia standout from the equation. At the same time, they recently traded for D.K. Metcalf, so paying him after this season doesn't seem financially viable.
Peters might be looking to the draft for another pass-catcher. He traded for Samuel and still has to extend Terry McLaurin with one year remaining on his deal. But there's no doubt Pickens represents something different from what the Commanders have currently.
With 174 receptions for 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during his three-year NFL career, Pickens brings proven production to the table. He's also just turned 24 years old, so there's a chance the wideout is only just scratching the surface of what he's capable of.
Whether Pickens represents a good culture fit is anyone's guess. He's temperamental when things are going his way. Mike Tomlin's got a good handle on him from a personality standpoint, but that might not be as easy for others.
Dan Quinn worked hard to enhance the locker room dynamic in Washington. Petulance from Pickens would not be tolerated. That makes this trade risky, even if the Commanders had the disposable assets to pull it off.
It would be extremely surprising if the Commanders threw their hat into the ring. But Peters has proved more than once this offseason that nothing should be completely ruled out.