NFL Trade Rumors: Steelers projected to trade for $44M Jets WR Allen Lazard, Aaron Rodgers’ favorite, to replace George Pickens | NFL News
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly moving quickly in NFL trade rumors, targeting Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard to fill the void left by George Pickens. With Pickens traded to the Cowboys in May, Pittsburgh needs a reliable boundary receiver opposite DK Metcalf. A trade for Aaron Rodgers’ favorite target in Lazard could be the strategic boost their passing game needs.
Pittsburgh eyes veteran $44 million receiver Allen Lazard as ideal replacement for George Pickens in trade move
According to For the Win’s Cory Woodroof, the Steelers may not rely solely on free agency. Instead, the team is expected to trade a fifth‑round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft for Lazard, a proven veteran with deep ties to quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Woodroof wrote, “It just feels automatic at this point,” hinting at a likely agreement before the season.Lazard’s connection with Rodgers is well‑documented. He spent five seasons in Green Bay, demonstrating reliable red‑zone presence and clutch performance. In 2023, Lazard followed Rodgers to New York, signing a four‑year, $44 million deal . That partnership brought consistency: Lazard posted 530 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games for the Jets last year, even without playing a full slate.
Though not a traditional No. 2 receiver, Lazard’s 6′5″ frame, polished route‑running, and red‑zone efficiency make him a valuable asset. His breakout season came in Green Bay in 2022: 60 receptions, 788 yards, and six touchdowns. In 2021, he tacked on eight touchdowns, reinforcing his status as a reliable target in scoring situations.The Steelers have struggled to fill Pickens’ role: a boundary threat who stretches defenses. Lazard provides that dimension while offering immediate chemistry with Rodgers, even if Rodgers isn’t under center in Pittsburgh. His veteran leadership and proven production could inject stability into a Steelers receiving corps that now lacks depth.Also Read: Exclusive: Joe Burrow reveals his love for fossils in Netflix’s ‘Quarterback’ while gearing up for a major 2024 comebackThis trade makes strategic sense. A Day‑3 pick is modest compensation for a player who can contribute right away. For the Steelers, this is about balancing risk and reward: adding a known, capable playmaker is far preferable to banking purely on unknown free agents or rookies.
