Palmer concluded that Pickens will likely be traded before the start of the 2026 season — which aligns with insider Gerry Dulac’s comments that Pickens could be moved at next year’s draft to help the Steelers trade up for a top quarterback.

"Keep in mind, the Steelers are in a position where they need to keep that receiver room as attractive as possible for that man you saw at the Kentucky Derby, Aaron Rodgers, not yet signed," Fowler said. "So, they're not really in the business of trading off capable pieces right now that he could potentially be throwing to.