The Las Vegas Raiders have signaled a shift in their offensive strategy by acquiring quarterback Geno Smith in a pre-free agency trade with the Seattle Seahawks. While this move addresses the quarterback position, the team’s focus should now turn to enhancing the surrounding offensive talent. With Brock Bowers as a promising tight end and Jakobi Meyers as a reliable veteran, the Raiders still require a true No. 1 wide receiver to elevate their passing game.
Las Vegas Raiders Lands WR From Steelers In New Trade Idea
George Pickens, whose potential trade has been a topic of discussion due to reported behavioral issues, has emerged as a possible acquisition. The recent trade for DK Metcalf in the Pittsburgh Steelers has further fueled speculation about Pickens’ availability. ML Football has proposed a trade scenario where the Raiders would send third and sixth-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft to acquire Pickens. While the Raiders have already traded a third-round pick in the Smith deal, they possess another third-round selection in the upcoming draft.
This trade would require the Raiders to part with valuable draft capital, but it would also secure a potentially elite wide receiver. Pickens’ 2024 season saw him record 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games. In 2023, he tallied 63 receptions for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns, leading the NFL in yards per catch. Even with three missed games in 2024, Pickens’ production would have placed him second among Raiders receivers in yards and receptions.
Despite concerns about Pickens’ character, a move to Las Vegas under veteran head coach Pete Carroll could prove beneficial. With Bowers and Meyers already in place, Pickens would assume the role of the clear-cut No. 1 receiver, a position he no longer holds in Pittsburgh Steelers following the Metcalf trade. His presence would complement Bowers’ slot and middle-of-the-field abilities, providing the Raiders with a reliable downfield threat.
If the Raiders pursue Pickens, they will need to address his contract situation, as he is slated for free agency in 2026. Spotrac projects a four-year, $23.6 million annual contract for Pickens. Over the Cap indicates that the Raiders are projected to have ample cap space in 2026, making a long-term extension feasible.
However, the likelihood of the Steelers trading Pickens remains low. With their recent acquisition of Metcalf, they would create a significant void at the wide receiver position by trading Pickens, essentially returning to their previous need.
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