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, he too often overshadows those plays by drawing penalties for taunting.
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He is an enigma that the Steelers have tolerated thus far. As a former receiver, Chad Johnson thinks they might not tolerate him for much longer.
Reacting to the news coming out of Pittsburgh, Ocho on the latest episode of Nightcap contested 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 as 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.
So why are the Steelers adamant to move on from him after this time? Well, besides his on-field attitude, his off-the-field issues are popping up. Pickens didn’t play in the Christmas game against the Chiefs. They gave no reason for his absence then but now the real reason has been revealed. He was 35 minutes late to the game.
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, Martavius Bryant, Diontae Johnson, Santonio Holmes, etc. They can and most likely will move on from George Pickens.
