The Pittsburgh Steelers have a definitive No. 1 wide receiver in George Pickens, but according to insider Mark Kaboly, the team is approaching
a critical juncture regarding his future with the franchise. Appearing on 93.7 The Fan’s Morning Show on Monday, Kaboly emphasized that the
Steelers need to make a clear decision about Pickens’ role going forward, particularly as he enters the final year of his contract in 2025.
“This decision about George’s future has to be made in the offseason,” Kaboly said. “You cannot bring him back next year as a lame-
duck player.” Kaboly’s comments come after a tumultuous Week 13 performance in a win over the Cincinnati Bengals, where Pickens was
penalized twice for unsportsmanlike conduct. Head coach Mike Tomlin, addressing the media after the game, noted that Pickens must “grow
up,” warning that his behavior could have negative consequences for both himself and the team.
Pickens’ conduct has been a point of concern since he was drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. This season alone, he has been
fined three times—twice for unnecessary roughness and once for profanity written on his eye black during a Week 5 game against the
Dallas Cowboys. Kaboly further noted that he doesn’t believe Pickens is particularly motivated by warnings from the Steelers, suggesting that
he remains largely indifferent to the prospect of reduced playing time or a potential contract dispute. “One thing I’ve heard from multiple
sources is that George just doesn’t care about stuff like that,” Kaboly remarked. On the field, Pickens has been a standout, recording 55
receptions for 850 yards and three touchdowns this season. His production positions him as one of the rising stars at wide receiver in the league,
making a potential extension an easy decision from a talent standpoint. However, the Steelers may have reservations about his attitude, which
could influence their approach to his long-term future. Ultimately, Kaboly suggests that Pittsburgh must finalize its stance on Pickens
before next season begins to avoid further complications.