George Pickens sends message to his critics during big game

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens had a rough week, but his response on Saturday against the Cincinnati Bengals was everything Steelers fans could have wanted.

Pickens caught an 86-yard touchdown on the Steelers’ second offensive play from scrimmage, then followed it up with a 66-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter. Through the first three periods, Pickens tallied four catches for 195 yards and two touchdowns.

After his second touchdown, Pickens sent a clear message to his critics by saying he wasn’t listening.

😏

📺: #CINvsPIT on NBC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/yewPow3ekF pic.twitter.com/J7ddBvJVow

— NFL (@NFL) December 23, 2023

Pickens has been questioned a lot in 2023, as his negative attitude on the sidelines has raised eyebrows. Things came to a head this week when he essentially gave up on blocking for teammate Jaylen Warren (video here), which he excused by saying he was trying to avoid an injury.

Obviously, one good game will not make the issues go away for Pickens, but Saturday went a long way toward pushing past the drama for the time being.