Steelers WR George Pickens Slapped with Six Figures in Financial Punishments this Season by Steelers and NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has faced significant financial penalties this season, according to sources close to the matter. It appears that Pickens may have turned a corner in recent weeks, following a public call-out by his head coach. Despite enduring a challenging year, Pickens delivered strong performances in Weeks 16 and 17, recording a total of 11 catches, 326 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.

Sources reveal that Pickens has accumulated fines of at least $200,000 from the NFL and the Steelers, indicating a larger-than-average penalty for any player, regardless of their contract status. The publicly disclosed fines from the NFL add up to $33,441, primarily for incidents related to unnecessary roughness and unnecessary conduct. However, team fines and other league penalties remain undisclosed.

The substantial six-figure amount represents a considerable portion of Pickens’ salary for this season. As a third-year player on his rookie contract, the former second-round pick earns a base salary of $1.318 million in 2023.

Stepping into Week 16, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stated that addressing the issues surrounding Pickens required more than one meeting or form of discipline. Tomlin’s unusual level of public accountability suggests the severity of the situation, typically kept behind closed doors.

Pickens’ professionalism concerning his shortcomings has been a point of concern for the organization. Tomlin emphasized the importance of addressing these matters more professionally with the media. However, it seems that Pickens heeded the message, and his recent performances may be attributed to improvements in his attitude and the presence of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on the field.

According to sources, Pickens is now in a much better place and is fully committed to meeting all expectations. His undeniable talent is evident, as he finished the season leading the entire NFL in yards per reception (18.1) and recorded just one drop on 106 targets. His 1,140 receiving yards also make him the team leader and mark the highest single-season total for the franchise since 2021.

In Monday’s Super Wild Card Weekend game against the Buffalo Bills, both teams will contend with freezing temperatures and challenging winds. This inclement weather may pose difficulties for passing the football.

The Bills defense has been formidable, not allowing a single 100-yard receiver since Week 12 against the New Orleans Saints. Buffalo has since secured five consecutive wins and boasts one of the league’s four lowest average passing yards allowed per game.