George Pickens is undeniably one of the most talented receivers in the league, with the potential to be the very best—if not for his poor attitude. He consistently wins contested catches and embarrasses DBs with his unmatched skill. However, at times, he overshadows those plays by drawing penalties for taunting. His off-field shenanigans have been even more intense, which has, once again (like last season), fueled the rumor mills about the Steelers cutting ties with the receiver.
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Reacting to this news coming out of Pittsburgh on the latest episode of Nightcap, even Chad Johnson argues that the Steelers-Pickens marriage is heading toward a breakup. He suggested that a change of scenery would be good for Pickens. He also thinks that a former player needs to have a heartfelt conversation with the Steelers wideout about the opportunities given to him.
“You are not even close to your prime yet. You have to get right and get on the right track because they will tolerate you until they replace you.”
Ocho advised Pickens to understand that as much talent and potential he might have, he needs to put that to good use to achieve long-term success. He also believes that the best thing for Pickens and the Steelers would be to part ways.
Agreeing with Ocho, Shannon Sharpe pointed out that the same thing happened with Terrell Owens. Three big franchises moved on from T.O. due to his attitude despite his continuous production. As Sharpe pointed out, Pickens doesn’t even have T.O.’s numbers to back himself up with.
But there’s more. As Sharpe mentioned in his report, Pickens has also proven to be unprofessional. The wideout was apparently 35 minutes late to the Christmas matchup against the Chiefs, which the Steelers lost 29-10. “Pickens showed up late to practice and games countless times,” Sharpe further read out.
He is entering his 4th season in Pittsburgh and will want an extension but if Ocho is right — he is not going to get one. The Steelers have previously moved on from Antonio Brown, Chase Claypool, Martavis Bryant, Diontae Johnson, Santonio Holmes, etc. They can and most likely will move on from George Pickens if he doesn’t mend his ways.
