ESPN's Matt Miller calls Steelers roster 'worst' of Mike Tomlin era after George Pickens trade

The Dallas Cowboys made a splash Wednesday, acquiring receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers. For Dallas, it’s a much-needed shot of star power to its receiver core.

But for Pittsburgh, the absence of Pickens adds more question marks to its offense and the roster as a whole, ESPN‘s Matt Miller said. Miller went as far to call the 2025 roster the “worst” of the Mike Tomlin era.

This is the worst Steelers roster of the Mike Tomlin era.

— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) May 7, 2025

This is Tomlin’s 19th season at the helm in Pittsburgh. Tomlin has notably never finished under .500; that appears to be in serious jeopardy this season.

Let’s start with the receiver room. The Steelers acquired receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, which does offset the loss of Pickens. But beyond Metcalf, it’s slim pickings: Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods, Roman Wilson, Scotty Miller, Ben Skowronek and Brandon Johnson.

Austin did haul in 36 catches for 548 yards and four touchdowns last season. But Wilson, Miller, Skowronek, and Johnson combined for 11 catches for 47 yards and zero scores. Woods, the elder statesman of the group, had just 20 catches for 203 yards.

Pickens, meanwhile, appeared in 14 games last season as he missed some time with an injury. During that time, he hauled in 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns as a key piece of the Steelers’ passing attack. That came after an impressive second year in the NFL in 2023 when he had a career-high 1,140 yards and five touchdowns. His 18.1 yards per reception led the league that season.

Steelers roster takes a hit after loss of George Pickens

Then there’s the quarterback position. The room currently includes Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and Will Howard. Pittsburgh has been pursuing Aaron Rodgers, but the 41-year-old has yet to make a decision on his future. Right now, it feels like it’s Steelers or retirement.

Steelers owner and president Art Rooney II has expressed optimism about their chances of landing Rodgers. But even if Rodgers comes, does that move the needle? Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson should be able to run the ball effectively in Arthur Smith‘s zone-heavy run offense. But again, there are question marks at the other skill positions beyond Metcalf and tight end Pat Freiermuth.

The offseason is not over, however, and the Steelers still have time to add to their roster. Worst of the Tomlin era? The 2025 season will reveal all.