George Pickens’ turbulent tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers featured spectacular plays alongside controversial moments that generated constant headlines. Throughout this period, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin consistently defended his talented but volatile receiver.

Wallace and Smith-Schuster were declining in their final years with the Steelers before going to new teams. Wallace's yards per game dropped from 74.6 in 2011 to 55.7 in 2012, then he signed with the Miami Dolphins prior to the 2013 season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering uncharted waters in the 2026 season. After losing all three quarterbacks, their top running back, and trading George Pickens, their top wide receiver, the team’s offensive core is changing completely.