George Pickens Backs Out Of Youth Camp After Trade, Steelers Teammate Steps In To Take Responsibility
Former Steelers wide receiver George Pickens may have left Pittsburgh, but he didn’t just leave the team — he left a promise behind.
Pickens had previously committed to hosting a youth football camp at Highmark Stadium through TruEdge Sports. The event was already sold out and eagerly anticipated by local families. But following his trade to the Dallas Cowboys, Pickens reportedly backed out of the camp, despite initial reassurances that he would still attend.
According to a statement from TruEdge Sports and reporting by Mark Kaboly, Pickens reversed his decision at the last minute, leaving organizers scrambling. TruEdge expressed deep frustration, stating:
“We’ve been forced to navigate this situation with zero notice... It’s incredibly frustrating to see Pickens abandon a commitment he personally confirmed after his trade.”
But Steelers Nation didn’t have to wait long for a silver lining. Tight end Pat Freiermuth stepped up and volunteered to replace Pickens at the camp — an act that was not expected of him. TruEdge confirmed Freiermuth’s participation, and noted that they’re also in talks with several other Steelers players to appear.
“It wasn’t his responsibility, but he stepped up,” Kaboly wrote. “What a nice gesture.”
The rescheduled event will now take place on July 20, just days before the Steelers report to training camp. All young participants will receive free autographs from the attending players, and anyone who purchased extra autograph packages will receive a refund.
While Pickens' departure may have left a sour taste, Freiermuth’s selfless response has turned the spotlight back on the values that matter most to the Steelers and their fans — accountability, leadership, and heart.
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