George Pickens will go down as one of the biggest what-ifs in recent Pittsburgh Steelers history, but former head coach Mike Tomlin revealed why the star wideout needed to be traded in the first place.
Tomlin, who appeared on a recent episode of The Rich Eisen Show, shared why the Steelers didn't give Pickens a contract extension and instead traded him to the Cowboys, hinting at a lack of maturity as a driving force.
“For us, I just thought, it’s not only play. It’s development in other areas, intangible areas," Tomlin said. "I think when you’re a high dollar, second-contract guy, I think there’s some leadership responsibilities, and things of that nature. And I just don’t feel like that was in his natural wheelhouse. We felt better about DK’s
abilities in those areas.”
Pickens, who was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, became one of the best contested catch wide receivers in the league, recording some of the most exciting, highlight-reel grabs fans have seen. But as Tomlin pointed out, Pickens' level of play wasn't in question.
From sideline outbursts to a lack of effort on blocking plays, a fight with Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II, consistent unsportsmanlike penalties and allegedly hiding in equipment rooms to avoid media obligations, the list goes on and on. Tomlin said what many won't about Pickens: a second contract wouldn't have worked in Pittsburgh, and potentially won't work with the Dallas Cowboys either.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Mike Tomlin says quiet part out loud about former Steelers WR George Pickens
