Category: George Pickens

George Pickens’ feud with reporters grows just days before Steelers-Ravens Wild-Card matchup

George Pickens continues to avoid media, raising questions about his motives just days before the Steelers’ Wild-Card matchup.

There is no love lost between George Pickens and media personnel. Pickens’ disdain for reporters and media availability apparently has no end in sight, as the Steelers wide receiver has added another chapter to this never-ending feud filled with immaturity and hard-hitting questions.

Pickens previously avoided reporters after wearing a profane mouthguard during the team’s Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. It seems reporters are experiencing their own Groundhog Day, as the Steelers receiver has once again completely ignored all attempts by media personnel to ask questions—just days before the team’s Wild-Card matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

ESPN’s Brooke Pryor reported on social media that not only did Pickens decline an interview following the team’s Week 18 loss, but he also avoided the media in the lead-up to the team’s playoff game this week.

Is Pickens acting in his own self-interest, or is he simply avoiding creating more distractions through the sometimes deceptive questioning from reporters?

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Ravens fire early shots at George Pickens ahead of Wild-Card matchup versus Steelers

Ravens stir drama before the Wild-Card game, mocking George Pickens with a bold comment that could fuel tensions on the field.

The Baltimore Ravens’ attempt to rile up Steelers WR George Pickens before the big Wild-Card playoff game reeks of desperation—literally!

In a video making waves on social media, Lamar Jackson’s new cologne— Night Lights—was being sampled by teammates C Tyler Linderbaum and DT Travis Jones, when fans could hear one mysterious Raven take a jab at Pickens.

After Jones was unable to describe exactly what the cologne’s scent was, an unnamed Ravens player shouted, “It smells like George Pickens—soft.”

The Baltimore Ravens are clearly attempting to use every advantage at their disposal—including Pickens’ tendency to implode when poked and prodded by the opposition.

Will Pickens showcase a newfound maturity by letting the comments slide, or will he once again choose conflict over peace, as seen in his altercation with Steelers fans during Week 18’s loss?

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George Pickens clashes with Steelers fans in frustrating Week 18 loss

George Pickens fires back at Steelers fans with trash talk after Week 18 loss, adding fuel to an already tense playoff atmosphere.

George Pickens appears to be one of the most disliked and disgruntled Steelers players in Pittsburgh right now, and it isn’t just for his poor Week 18 performance.

Fans of the Black and Gold are among the most outspoken and passionate in the NFL, and Pickens seems to have taken exception to their anger following the team’s Week 18 loss.

In what can only be described as the perfect storm—Steelers fans’ passion colliding with Pickens’ immaturity—viewers of the Week 18 AFC North contest between Pittsburgh and Cincinnati witnessed the Steelers receiver engaging in a heated exchange with fans in attendance.

While it may have seemed innocent enough at first glance, nothing involving Pickens ever is. The last thing the Pittsburgh Steelers need after their disappointing Week 18 loss is further distractions heading into the playoffs.

Pickens has shown inconsistency and immaturity in his decisions throughout this season, leaving his future with the Pittsburgh Steelers uncertain as the team approaches 2025.

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Is George Pickens positioning himself for a 2025 Steelers exit?

George Pickens’ inconsistent 2024 season raises questions about whether his play outweighs his attitude for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are no strangers to trading away dramatic wide receivers. Antonio Brown, Chase Claypool, and Diontae Johnson ultimately positioned themselves as trade casualties once their baggage outweighed their on-field production.

The question that should be on the minds of all Steelers fans is this: Is WR George Pickens setting himself up for the same fate in 2025?

Pickens has undoubtedly produced his most dramatic season yet in 2024, though it seemed as if the Steelers were initially willing to tolerate his immaturity.  His rookie contract extends only through 2025, and his inconsistency on the field this season may have the Steelers ready to move on.

From fumbling away the Colts game to practically giving up during the Hail Mary attempt against the Browns, to causing an interception by running the wrong route in Week 17, and now his Week 18 performance, which saw Pickens drop three balls and catch one pass on six targets for zero yards, it may be time to find a potential trade partner next offseason.

Will Pickens rebound in the playoffs? And if he does, will it be enough to make up for his on- and off-field drama in 2024?

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George Pickens refused to play reporter’s game regarding Week 17 INT

George Pickens showed maturity by avoiding controversy when questioned about the Week 17 interception.

George Pickens continues to have issues during the Steelers’ dedicated time for media availability, but fans may argue that the wide receiver showcased some maturity this time around.

Reporters have been digging for information regarding the Steelers’ costly Week 17 interception against the Kansas City Chiefs. Although QB Russell Wilson had shed light on what took place—confirming Pickens was to blame—reporters went straight to the horse’s mouth.

On Thursday, despite their previous struggles getting information out of the Steelers wide receiver, reporters asked Pickens to explain the miscommunication on the interception. Pickens, however, didn’t bite on the opportunity to throw his QB under the bus.

After being asked about Wilson’s comments on the mistake, Pickens attempted to shift the question back to the reporters:

“That’s what he said? Or is that what you said?”

He continued to play coy, choosing instead to decline further engagement with the question.

While he could be protecting his own self-interests, his ability to pull himself away from a situation that could only be described as a rock and a hard place proves his growth and maturity heading into Week 18 against the Cincinnati Bengals.

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Steelers’ wide receiver dilemma: Is George Pickens the latest ‘hostage’ in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has seen it before from Le’Veon Bell, Steven Nelson, Antonio Brown. Could George Pickens be next?

An old and oft-recycled Mike Tomlin adage is, “We need volunteers, not hostages.” Le’Veon Bell, Steven Nelson, Melvin Ingram, and, most recently, Diontae Johnson all made it clear they wanted out of Pittsburgh. We’re wondering if George Pickens is the latest to feel more like a Pittsburgh Steelers hostage.

Steelers Nation has witnessed evident flashes of I’ve-had-enough-here-in-Pittsburgh from Pickens during his career. He may have reached his tipping point.

Of course, like most athletes, it’s all smiles when their teams win. But the three-game skid from Weeks 15-17 could be enough to push Pickens over the edge.

Has Pickens had enough of the Steelers? Have the Steelers had enough of Pickens? Those questions could be answered sooner than later. While Pickens is under contract through 2025, the Steelers typically re-up top-tier players the season before.

The best solution might just be for Pittsburgh to cut ties and get what they can for him in a trade. The last thing the club needs is a disgruntled Pickens heading into a contract season. Wide receivers grow on trees, and the NFL draft will be here before we know it.

Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan might want to rethink their approach to drafting wide receivers with apparent character issues. They knew what they were getting in Antonio Brown and they knew what they were getting with George Pickens. With the college ranks oozing with talented receivers, is selecting one they know will be a problem really worth it?

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Is George Pickens playing today? Injury updates for Steelers WR

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is dealing with a hamstring injury. Here’s the latest update.

George Pickens (hamstring) is set to make his highly-anticipated return this afternoon as the team faces off against the visiting Kansas City Chiefs.

Pickens, who missed the last three games due to injury, has been sorely missed in the Steelers’ offense. His absence has led to a noticeable dip in explosive plays and red-zone efficiency, leaving fans eager for his comeback.

Known for his athleticism and ability to make highlight-reel catches, Pickens adds a dynamic element to the Steelers’ passing attack, which will be crucial against a high-powered Chiefs team led by Patrick Mahomes.

This holiday matchup has playoff implications for both teams, making Pickens’ return even more significant. The Steelers will look to their star to create mismatches against the Chiefs’ secondary and spark an offense that has struggled without him.

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Will George Pickens play this week? Injury updates for Steelers WR

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is dealing with a hamstring injury. Here’s the latest update.

George Pickens (hamstring) is set to make his highly-anticipated return on Christmas Day as the team faces off against the visiting Kansas City Chiefs.

Pickens, who missed the last three games due to injury, has been sorely missed in the Steelers’ offense. His absence has led to a noticeable dip in explosive plays and red-zone efficiency, leaving fans eager for his comeback.

Known for his athleticism and ability to make highlight-reel catches, Pickens adds a dynamic element to the Steelers’ passing attack, which will be crucial against a high-powered Chiefs team led by Patrick Mahomes.

This holiday matchup has playoff implications for both teams, making Pickens’ return even more significant. The Steelers will look to their star to create mismatches against the Chiefs’ secondary and spark an offense that has struggled without him.

George Pickens injury update

Pickens was injured in practice preparation for the Week 14 matchup with the Cleveland Browns. Pickens was a full participant in Monday’s walkthrough and Tuesday’s practice.

Steelers wide receiver depth chart

Down a depth piece in Ben Skowronek (hip), the Steelers are otherwise healthy with Pickens back in the lineup. As usual, the wide receiver depth is Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson, Mike Williams and Scotty Miller.

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George Pickens still uncertain on Week 17 availability vs Chiefs

George Pickens provides a cautious injury update, leaving Steelers fans wondering if he’ll return for the Christmas Day matchup.

Fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers holding out for a Christmas miracle regarding a positive George Pickens injury update will likely have to keep waiting.

During Monday’s media availability, Pickens was asked how his hamstring was holding up after missing the Pittsburgh Steelers’ last three contests due to injury.

Pickens offered a glimmer of hope to fans of the Black and Gold before quickly setting realistic expectations for the Steelers’ Week 17 contest against the Kansas City Chiefs:

“I feel good, but who makes the decision is the coaches and the doctors. Whatever they tell me to do, I’m doing.”

Pickens ultimately left the ETA for his return up in the air, stating that he will find out when he can play just like everyone else:

“Whenever you guys find out is when I’ll find out.”

If Pickens’ hamstring isn’t 100% healthy, the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider holding their star receiver out until the postseason begins.

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Is George Pickens playing today? Injury updates for Steelers WR

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is dealing with a hamstring injury. Here’s the latest update.

With the Pittsburgh Steelers on the verge of winning the AFC North and the toughest three-game stretch of the season ahead, the absence of star wideout George Pickens (hamstring) is less than ideal.

On Thursday, the Steelers designated Pickens as out for the Baltimore Ravens matchup.

Pickens is set to miss his third consecutive game after sustaining the injury during Dec. 5 practice. Until Week 14, Pickens had not missed a game in his NFL career.

The Steelers have managed just 27 points and three touchdowns since Pickens has been sidelined. Pickens has 55 receptions for 850 yards and three touchdowns this season.

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