Pat Freiermuth to the rescue.
The Steelers тιԍнт end is stepping in to guide a sold-out youth football camp in Pittsburgh after his former teammate, mercurial wide receiver George Pickens, backed out of the commitment following his trade to the Cowboys, according to a purported email from event organizers, Sports Illustrated reported.
“As of last week, TruEdge was notified by George’s team that he has decided to walk back on his word and is no longer interested in attending the camp. Let us be very clear: we are deeply frustrated by the decision and the position it has placed all of us in,” the email reportedly read.
“That said, we are determined for this event to be a wonderful experience for you all. As soon as we were informed of George’s decision, our team went to preserve this event. We’re pleased to share that Steelers тιԍнт end Pat Freiermuth has officially committed to stepping in as a guest for this camp. Additionally, we are actively in talks with multiple other Steelers players and fully intend to build out an exciting lineup that delivers value to every family.”
A former second-round pick, Pickens’ future with the Steelers was murky following the 2024 season, with head coach Mike Tomlin stating the wideout needed to “grow up.”
He was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct penalties and arrived late to a game.
The Steelers officially unloaded Pickens in May, receiving a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder from Dallas, who also landed a 2026 sixth-rounder in the deal.
In 14 games last season, Pickens caught 59 pᴀsses for 900 yards and three touchdowns.
Event organizers added in the email that the camp will be rescheduled for July 20 at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh in the wake of Pickens’ abrupt change of heart.
“Our team at TruEdge was fully prepared to host a camp this Saturday because we were led to believe George would follow through on his commitment. His sudden decision to back out not only reflects a disappointing lack of accountability, but also shows a disregard for the families and children who were excited to meet him,” the message stated.
Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with the 26-year-old Freiermuth, who has been with the Steelers for all four years of his NFL career.
He has tallied 2,190 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns across those seasons.
