Locked On: Could Mike Tomlin Be Doing More about George Pickens?

The behavior of Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has become a consistent talking point when it comes to the failures of this unit, as the Steelers have slid to 7-7 and seen their playoff hopes dashed over their recent three-game slide.

Pickens has drawn attention for his social media behavior, his sideline attitude, his commitment to blocking and his overall level of hustle, attentiveness and dedication to his craft.

Head coach Mike Tomlin took the unusual step this week of talking in depth about Pickens’ issues in an interview with the team’s website. Then Pickens repaid him by giving zero effort on a block that cost Jaylen Warren a touchdown, pouting on the bench, and giving questionable effort in chasing down an interception as the Steelers lost 30-13 to the Colts.

Tomlin has tried talking with Pickens. He’s had other players talk to Pickens. Is there anything else that the Steelers head coach should be doing right now to get through to his star receiver? Or is it up to Pickens to shape up, or be shipped out?

Alan Saunders joined Chris Carter on the Locked On Steelers Podcast to discuss that, as well as the stars and skulls grades from the team’s Week 15 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Plus, they discussed Mason Rudolph’s promotion over Mitch Trubisky, whether or not Kenny Pickett has a realistic chance to return from his ankle injury in Week 16, Damontae Kazee’s season-long suspension and more

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Check out the full archive of appearances of Alan Saunders, Nick Farabaugh and the rest of the SN staff on Locked On.