Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has been a standout in the offense, leading the team in receptions and yards, but his on-field antics have drawn attention. In the Steelers’ 44-38 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, Pickens was flagged twice for unsportsmanlike conduct, including one incident where he was seen arguing with a Bengals player after the whistle.
Former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. believes Pickens needs to “tone it down” and cited his own experience as a trash-talking player to make his point. Smith, who played 16 seasons in the league, knows what it’s like to have a reputation and warned Pickens that people will judge him based on what they see.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has also commented on Pickens’ behavior, but declined to go into detail, stating that being transparent wouldn’t necessarily help the player’s growth and development. Pickens has also been in the headlines for his raucous behavior, including a confrontation with Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II after a loss to the Browns.
The Steelers face the Browns again on Sunday, and all eyes will be on Pickens to see if he can rein it in and focus on the game.
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