George Pickens is enduring a challenging week, to say the least.
During a crucial play near the goal line on Saturday, the Steelers’ wide receiver failed to block for running back Jaylen Warren, a lapse in judgment that was compounded by his response when questioned about it.
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On Tuesday, Pickens explained his decision, expressing a concern for avoiding injury. “I didn’t want to get injured,” he stated, highlighting the vulnerability of staying in to block and the potential risk of being overrun by opponents.
He referenced a recent incident where Texans rookie sensation Tank Dell suffered a season-ending injury while blocking, fracturing his fibula. Pickens emphasized his intent to prevent a similar situation, saying, “You stay and block too long, you can get run up on very easily.”
In response to Pickens’ comments, Jaylen Warren offered a diplomatic response, indicating a subtle call-out to his teammate. “I see where he’s coming from,” Warren remarked. “It is what it is. At the end of the day, he was doing what he thought was best for him.”
Warren went on to express his willingness to block for Pickens if the roles were reversed, emphasizing different playing styles. “Some people play the game differently,” he noted. “If I was in that position, I would have blocked for him. But we play differently, so.”
The Steelers’ 30-13 loss to the Colts extended their losing streak to three games. George Pickens, drafted in the second round of the 2022 draft, has amassed 814 receiving yards in 14 games this season.
