The press conference held by head coach Mike Tomlin on Wednesday had everyone talking about Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. Pickens had made some remarks the previous day, stating that he opted not to block on a play to avoid risking injury and expressing his frustration about the media’s focus on him during a difficult season for the team as a whole. Responding to Pickens’ comments, Tomlin urged him to handle his issues in a more professional manner when speaking to the media, emphasizing that such remarks are not beneficial to his own reputation or the team’s performance.
Tomlin stated, “When you’re winning and doing your jobs, people tend to focus on things like that. But when you’re not living up to expectations and losing, it’s better to keep quiet and understand that it draws a negative kind of attention, almost like vultures circling.” Clearly, the coach expects his players to deliver on the field and maintain a certain level of professionalism off the field, especially during challenging times.
While acknowledging that Pickens is a work in progress, both in terms of football skills and personal growth, Tomlin emphasized the team’s commitment to nurturing his potential. Tomlin views Pickens as a talented player whose abilities should be harnessed effectively. However, the coach stressed that even if Pickens had spoken appropriately during the press conference or if the team was winning games, the ongoing process of the player’s development would still require their attention.
Tomlin did not disclose any potential disciplinary actions that might be taken in response to Pickens’ actions, making it clear that such matters are not to be discussed publicly. He did confirm, though, that Pickens will be in the lineup for the upcoming game against the Bengals. With this decision, the Steelers are hoping for a more positive outcome on the field.
Overall, the press conference shed light on the dynamic between Pickens and the team’s coaching staff. It highlighted the need for Pickens to handle his frustrations in a more professional manner and brought into focus the team’s dedication to his growth as both a player and an individual. As the Steelers prepare to face the Bengals, all eyes will be on Pickens to see if he can rise above the controversy and contribute positively to the team’s performance.