George Pickens has shown flashes of brilliance with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but his antics on and off the field raise serious concerns about his long-term value to the team.
In the recent game against Cincinnati, Pickens managed 74 receiving yards, yet his contributions were marred by two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties that negated 30 yards. This trend of undisciplined behavior not only diminishes his impact but also puts the Steelers in difficult positions.
Mark Madden has harsh words for Steelers’ George Pickens
Pickens’ behavior has prompted Pittsburgh media personality Mark Madden to call him a “ticking time bomb” ahead of his final contract year with the Steelers.
Wideout George Pickens isn’t very bright and lacks accountability. He had 74 yards receiving at Cincinnati but gave back 30 via unsportsmanlike conduct flags. The Steelers need to draft a receiver, find another in free agency and ditch Pickens in the offseason. His contract expires after the 2025 campaign, but extending him for big money would be stupid. Pickens’ idiocy too often undoes his ability. (Pickens can’t be a lame duck on an expiring contract next season. He’d go totally cuckoo.)
Mike Tomlin has publicly called for Pickens to “grow up,” acknowledging the need for maturity. However, Tomlin also noted that Pickens “has a target on his back,” which Madden believes Pickens asked for.
Mike Tomlin said Pickens needs to “grow up” but also said Pickens “has a target on his back.” Tomlin should note Pickens put that target there himself. It hurts the Steelers. Pickens got illegally wrenched to the turf prior to Cincinnati’s first-quarter pick-6 but no call. Pickens is a proven pain in the backside that won’t get an officiating break. Which further dilutes what Pickens does.
Steelers face tough decision on George Pickens in 2025
The Steelers face a tough decision regarding Pickens. His rookie contract extends through 2025, but extending him with a lucrative deal would be risky. Given his lack of accountability and recurring issues, Pittsburgh would be wise to explore other options. The offseason could present opportunities to draft a new receiver or target a free agent who brings both talent and discipline to the roster.
Pickens undeniably has the physical tools to be a top-tier receiver, but until he addresses his maturity and consistency, he risks being more of a hindrance than a help. For the Steelers to move forward, they need a reliable player in that role—not someone whose potential is continually undermined by poor decision-making. Letting Pickens go before his behavior further impacts the team might be the most prudent move.
