George Pickens Fined $20,462 for Unsportsmanlike Conduct
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has been fined for the fourth time this season, with his latest penalty being his most costly yet. Pickens was reportedly fined $20,462 for two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, one of which included a finger gun celebration after a long reception.
This fine comes amid criticisms from his own head coach, Mike Tomlin, who recently said Pickens needs to “grow up in a hurry.” Tomlin’s comments were made after Sunday’s game, where Pickens was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Pickens has been under the microscope this season, getting into a fight with Cleveland Browns defensive back Greg Newsome II in their Thursday night match last month. He was also accused of taking plays off earlier this season. In addition, his exchange with reporters the day after Thanksgiving raised some eyebrows, as he channeled former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch’s viral moment from the 2015 Super Bowl media day.
Despite the fine, Pickens has still had a productive season, with 55 receptions for 850 yards and three touchdowns. However, his conduct has been a topic of discussion, and the NFL has begun to crack down on gun-like celebrations this season. There have now been 21 fines due to obscene gestures this season.