Getty Image / Joe Sargent
When he’s focused, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is one of the better wide receivers in the NFL. But, unfortunately for the Steelers, he’s often causing trouble one way or another.
Given both his actions on the field and actions off of it, it’s clear that he is not locked in right now. And, just days ahead of a crucial playoff matchup against the Ravens on Saturday, Pickens is once again proving that he’s immature.
At times, George Pickens has been dominant this year. The third-year player had 59 catches for 900 yards and 3 touchdowns in 14 games this year as part of a not-so-great Pittsburgh passing attack. Occasionally, he would look unguardable on back-shoulder throws down the sideline, and he’s got the talent to be a true number-one receiver in the NFL. But, attitude problems haunted him at Georgia, and they’ve popped up in the NFL as well.
Reports in the past suggest that his prima donna act has worn thin with teammates, and Mike Tomlin has had to try to mentor Pickens on numerous occasions. But, it seems to be falling short.
NFL players are contractually obligated to make themselves available to the media. But, George Pickens isn’t holding up his end up of the bargain.
George Pickens did not make himself available for locker room interviews this week.
He typically talks the last day of the practice week – Thursdays/Fridays depending on game schedule – but didn’t today.
He also declined an interview request postgame vs. Cincy last week.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) January 9, 2025
Right now, general sentiment among Pittsburgh fans seem to be that he’s simply not worth the trouble. He’s going to need a contract extension soon, but do you really want to pay a player that causes so many issues?
That being said, a huge postseason could change sentiment around George Pickens in a hurry.