The George Pickens era with the Pittsburgh Steelers has come to an end, and the 2024 season highlighted several controversies surrounding the wide receiver. One of the most notable came after the Steelers’ 44-38 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in November, where Pickens earned two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. He mimicked firing a gun and dropped the ball on a Bengals player, actions that hurt the team and led to hefty fines. Following the game, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin made it clear that Pickens needed to mature. “He’s just got to grow up, man,” Tomlin stated. “This is an emotional game. He’s got a target on his back, but he has to grow up quickly.”
When Pickens was asked about Tomlin’s comments during his introductory press conference with the Cowboys, he responded in a mature manner, expressing that he is working on his personal growth every day. “Just taking one day at a time. I feel like everyone in the world is working on growing and bettering themselves,” Pickens said. He acknowledged that while some might question his character, he is focused on growth and joining the Cowboys’ established winning culture. “I can’t really change anyone’s opinion,” he added. “I’m just trying to build a winning culture, and I’m glad to be joining it.”
Pickens, who is set to play out his rookie contract without an extension, hopes to prove himself this season in order to secure a big contract next year. The second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, along with quarterback Kenny Pickett, was part of the Steelers’ key draft selections. However, neither finished their rookie contracts with the team.
In 2024, Pickens missed three games due to a hamstring injury, which impacted what seemed like a second consecutive 1,000-yard season. He ended the season with 59 receptions for 900 yards, averaging 15.3 yards per catch. Over the past two seasons, he has consistently averaged more than 15 yards per reception and 900 yards.
