On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers shipped George Pickens to Dallas, but according to insider Brooke Pryor, one person saw it coming: Aaron Rodgers. Even before Pickens became Dak Prescott’s new deep threat, the four-time MVP was looped in on the behind-the-scenes buzz.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Cowboys acquired Pickens and a 2027 sixth-rounder in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder—a big swing for Dallas, who desperately needed a WR2 behind CeeDee Lamb.

Meanwhile, Pryor said on ESPN’s “Get Up” that the Steelers had kept Rodgers “informed” throughout trade conversations.

“The Steelers have remained in constant contact with him since these conversations began about him potentially landing in Pittsburgh,” Pryor stated.

“Based on my conversations in the building, not only are the Steelers aware of what Rodgers has been dealing with in his personal life off the field, but I’m going to guess that that phone works two ways and the Steelers have kept him informed of potential things that they could be going through. I don’t think that this is a move that would catch Aaron Rodgers by surprise,” the Steelers insider added. [03:30]

Pickens leaves the Steelers after a 2024 campaign where he logged 59 catches, 900 yards and three touchdowns.

Also read: “He should hang the cleats up” – Cowboys Hall of Famer serves reality check to Aaron Rodgers as 4x MVP contemplates NFL future

George Pickens’ trade fuels Aaron Rodgers’ landing in Pittsburgh

The George Pickens trade is done, but the bigger story in Pittsburgh remains when Aaron Rodgers will finally be a Steeler. After sending Pickens to the Cowboys, the Steelers suddenly look wide open at WR.

NFL insider Jeremy Fowler delivered an update, reporting that the Steelers “remain in contact” with Rodgers and are still “hopeful” he lands in Steel City. No firm decision has been made yet.

Even Steelers minority owner Thomas Tull gave a cryptic response this week when asked about Rodgers. The team is also eyeing Jets wideout Allen Lazard, one of Rodgers’ favorite targets from both Green Bay and New York. A reunion could be on the cards.

Also read: Mike Tirico envisions perfect fit between Steelers and Aaron Rodgers: “Would love to see that marriage”