Pittsburgh Steelers WR George Pickens isn’t just causing trouble on Sunday, according to a new report from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. According to Ray Fittipaldo, Pickens reportedly was late for work “on multiple occasions.” this year.
Fittipaldo party.
“Sources tell the Post-Gazette Pickens has shown up late for work several times this season. Antonio Brown was notorious for being late, but Tomlin never took fewer snaps.”
Pickens is the top news of the week for the Steelers, who suffered their second straight loss against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. Pickens played his fewest snaps of the season (34 total, 59% of offense), finishing the game with three receptions for 26 yards. He dropped a key third down pass that would have put Pittsburgh in field goal range.
We noted on two occasions during training camp that George Pickens was the last player on the field for practice by the time the opening horn sounded to begin practice. Here are our notes from day 7 of camp.
“It’s not really any kind of deal, but it’s rare to see the players not on the field because the first horn sounds to officially start practice. Loud DL DeMarvin Leal and WR George Pickens were coming down the stairs and hill. “Technically, it’s a little late.”
In a press conference Tuesday, Mike Tomlin expressed little concern about Pickens’ situation, saying his declining snap count had anything to do with a “basic” off-field story and denying there was anything wrong with the effort he showed on the field. . He said Pickens’ actions, including bringing down Dallas Cowboys DB Jourdan Lewis during the final play of the game, will be addressed in-house. He also had his eyes painted black along with abusive language and could be fined several times for his actions. The NFL is expected to announce it on Saturday.
As Fittipaldo pointed out, Pickens isn’t the first Steeler to be late. Antonio Brown has the same reputation, especially in off-field events, but he has always been the hardest-working player whenever he takes the field.
Despite being the Steelers’ leading receiver through the first five games, George Pickens had an inconsistent season and had his fair share of negative moments during the team’s losing streak. He rushed for more than 100 yards in a Week 4 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, but fumbled the ball at a crucial moment at the Colts’ 10, taking at least three points off the board. And he had a difficult time performing against Dallas, reportedly looking visibly upset on the sideline.
All signs point to Pickens continuing his normal role as the Steelers’ No. 1 receiver and primary target this week. Pittsburgh is trying to avoid a third straight loss after getting off to a 3-0 start. They are scheduled to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday at 4:05 PM EST.
